CarolinasDentist Blog

Pool Season & Your Teeth: What Chlorine Can Do to Your Enamel

children swimming and how swimming and enamel health are related

Summer means sunshine, flip-flops, and time in the pool—but while you’re cooling off, your teeth may be soaking in more than just fun. At CarolinasDentist, with 14 locations across North Carolina, we see more patients this time of year with enamel changes linked to frequent pool exposure. Yes, chlorine can affect your teeth, especially with repeated or long-term contact.

How Chlorine Interacts With Tooth Enamel

Chlorine keeps pool water clean, but it also affects the water’s pH. When pool water becomes too acidic, it can start to erode enamel—the protective outer layer of your teeth. This usually happens in pools where chlorine levels aren’t properly balanced.

Swimmers who spend hours in the water every week may start to notice sensitive spots, staining, or a yellowish tint. That’s because worn enamel exposes the darker dentin beneath. Competitive swimmers are especially prone to this, but even regular pool-goers can be affected over time.

Who’s Most at Risk?

People who swim daily—or spend long sessions with their mouth open underwater—have more direct exposure. Kids at swim camp, adults doing laps, and lifeguards all fall into this category. That said, even occasional swimmers should be aware, especially if they notice sudden tooth sensitivity during the summer months.

What You Can Do About It

Rinse your mouth with fresh water after swimming. Don’t brush immediately, as enamel can be slightly softened by pool exposure—give it 30 minutes. If you’re a frequent swimmer, using a fluoride toothpaste or professional fluoride treatments can help strengthen enamel between visits.

Protect Your Smile with Help from CarolinasDentist in North Carolina

Spending time in the pool shouldn’t mean putting your enamel at risk from chlorine exposure. If you’re noticing new sensitivity or changes in your enamel, the team at CarolinasDentist can help. With 14 North Carolina locations, we make it easy to check in before small issues become big ones. Schedule a visit today and keep your smile strong all season long.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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