In our previous blog, we talked about the dangers associated with increased oral cancer rates from alcohol abuse. Many of us, however, don’t habitually misuse alcohol; still, by drinking beer, mixed drinks, and even wine, you could be diminishing your smile in a number of ways.
Alcohol & Common Oral Health Damage
While alcohol doesn’t directly create oral health problems for those that choose to imbibe, it does promote damaging dryness and commonly carry ingredients that directly impact tooth and gum health. Common alcoholic beverages impact teeth in the following ways:
- Alcohol dehydrates your body from consumption, your mouth is no exception. This is harmful because your saliva naturally combats the cavity, plaque, and gum disease forming bacteria found in your mouth.
- Most alcoholic drinks are acidic, including wine and beer. Acid is a leading cause in the wearing away of tooth enamel, which leaves teeth weakened and exposed.
- Staining commonly occurs from colored alcoholic beverages or those mixed with sodas. Despite other potential health benefits, red wine is especially potent at staining teeth.
- Sugars, commonly found in beer, wine, and even spirits, can be nearly as harmful as soda. This promotes tooth decay, gum disease, as well as tartar and plaque growth.
Simple Solutions
If you’re looking for some simple solutions to continue enjoying a guilt-free drink from time to time, then try the following:
- Use a straw, especially for mixed drinks. This prevents much of the staining properties associated with the darker drinks entering from the front of your mouth.
- Drink water alongside and after alcohol ingestion. By keeping hydrated, you allow your body to produce saliva, greatly reducing potential damages.
- Don’t skip your brushing and flossing. By brushing after having drinks, you greatly diminish the harmful effects of acid, sugars, and dehydration.
- Visit your dentist every 6 months for professional, routine maintenance, cleaning, and dental advice tailored to your oral health.
It is common knowledge that alcohol is unhealthy, and it should come as no surprise that its potentially harmful effects can impact oral health in additional to other bodily systems. The best solution for avoiding damages is to avoid alcohol intake altogether.
Get In Touch
The best way to combat any dental care issues that may pop up now or in the future is to visit your dentist for regular oral exams and receive preventative maintenance treatments. In addition to proper oral health maintenance at home, your dentist can help with direct assistance and guidance for your overall health.
