Chlorine is a widely used chemical element that helps keep water clean and safe. It’s added to drinking water to kill harmful bacteria and is a key additive in swimming pools and hot tubs to prevent the growth of germs.
So, chlorine is good for your health and oral health, right? Yes and no—while chlorine plays a key role in reducing waterborne diseases, if used in excess, it can also cause irritation after too much exposure.
Health risks of chlorine
Chlorine has clear benefits when it is used properly, but it lowers the pH level of the water, which means if used in excess, it makes the water more acidic. This is why repeated exposure in a short period of time to a swimming pool with too much chlorine can lead to some health problems.
Potential health issues from chlorine overexposure include:
- Skin irritation: Chlorine can cause red, dry or itchy skin.
- Red, burning or irritated eyes: Burning or irritation in the eyes is a common side effect of chlorine exposure.
- Respiratory issues: Breathing in chlorine may trigger asthma symptoms or lung irritation.
- Digestive problems: Swallowing chlorinated water can lead to stomach discomfort or diarrhea.
- Hair damage: Chlorine can strip natural oils from hair, making it brittle and dry.
Smile risks for swimmers
- Eroded enamel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and tooth decay.
- Discolored, yellow-brown mineral deposits (called swimmer’s calculus) on your teeth.
- Dry mouth, which increases your risk for cavities and gum disease.
How to swim, smile, and see without worry
- Swim with your mouth closed to reduce chlorine exposure to your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth periodically while you swim and immediately after so the chlorine doesn’t linger on your teeth.
- Wear goggles in the water to lower your risk for dry, burning, or irritated eyes
- Check the pool’s pH levels, if you can. A pH lower than 5.5 can erode enamel and the recommended pH range for a pool is 7.0 to 7.8.
Chlorine helps keep our water safe, but remember: too much of it can take a toll on your health. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the pool without worrying about skin irritation, dental damage or dry, burning eyes. So go ahead and make a splash—just remember to protect your teeth and eyes while you’re at it!
