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Why does swimming cause my child's teeth to stain?

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The amount of time competitive child swimmers spend swimming has been linked to teeth staining. Brown-yellow stains can develop on the outside surface of teeth. The stains are thought to develop due to an interaction between disinfectants and chemicals, such as chlorine, in the swimming pool. It causes salivary proteins to break down, and this lets stains build up.

Research has shown more than six hours of swimming per week was amount of time needed for swimmers to have an increased risk of stains developing. 

Research in Australia showed that competitive child swimmers had a six times greater chance of staining than non-swimmers.

The stains can be tough to remove. You will need to see a dental professional for a professional clean. It will not be removed by brushing at home.

These stains can develop very quickly. Some children develop the stains within one month of having a professional dental clean. 

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