With so many pros and cons, it can be easy to be confused about the impact alcohol has on your oral health. After all, studies have shown that drinking a glass of red wine a day can improve heart health and increase levels of HDL (or “good”) cholesterol. But although in moderation it can benefit the body, consuming this type of beverage can still be dangerous for your smile. Here’s a closer look at some of the risks alcohol can have on your teeth and gums, and how to protect yourself when you drink.
Myth #1: Alcoholic beverages keep you hydrated
While it’s true that beverages are wet and therefore provide moisture to the mouth, the alcohol found in wine, spirits, and beer can counteract that hydration and create a drying effect. This decreases your saliva levels, increasing your risk of cavities. Thus, be sure to consume alcohol along with a glass of water to keep your mouth moist and rinse away excess sugars.
Myth #2: Beer doesn’t stain your teeth
Even if it’s not a dark variety, beer contains acid which increases your risk of tooth stains. Beverages have compounds called chromogens that can attach to your tooth enamel. When mixed with the acidity of alcohol, they can easily stain your teeth.
Myth #3: Adding citrus to alcoholic beverages makes them healthier for your teeth
While citrus fruits do provide vitamin C that can benefit your gums and immune system, the American Dental Association has determined that even as little as just a squeeze of lemon juice contains enough citric acid to damage tooth enamel.
Myth #4: Alcohol won’t affect your oral health
Abusing alcohol is the second most common risk factor for developing oral cancer. Additionally, those with an alcohol dependency typically have higher plaque levels in their mouth, increasing their risk of permanent tooth loss threefold over those who do not have an alcohol addiction.
Myth #5: Drinking alcohol helps keep your mouth clean
Although it may seem like alcohol might kill germs or bacteria, the truth is that the more alcohol you consume, the greater your risk of developing cavities. Drinking these beverages causes dry mouth and an increase in vomiting, and the acids in your vomit can permanently damage the enamel, too.
Remember, while an occasional alcoholic beverage should not completely damage a healthy mouth, it is still very important to protect your teeth and gums when you consume it. Thus, be sure to alternate any of these with sips of water, rinse with more water once you are done, and be sure to brush and floss your teeth well at least 30 minutes after finishing your beverage. This will give your enamel a chance to re-harden and help protect your teeth and gums from the damaging effects of these types of drinks. This, combined with a consistent oral hygiene routine including regular exams and cleanings with your dentist, can help protect your smile for a lifetime!
About Our Practice
At Sunrise Dental Center, we are proud to help protect your smile. Whether you’re suffering from periodontal issues, have a troublesome tooth that may need a filling, of its simply time for your annual check-up and cleaning, our team of caring and compassionate dentists are ready to assist you. To schedule an appointment for treatment, visit our website today, or call us directly at 713-869-9973.
