There is nothing wrong with enjoying a cold beer or glass of red wine with dinner, or toasting a special occasion with a few flutes of champagne. As long as you consume alcohol in moderation and don’t have any preexisting conditions, you shouldn’t experience any long-lasting ill effects from drinking. However, because alcohol impacts virtually every part of the body, those who fail to drink in moderation can cause serious harm. Here, Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS, a family dentist in Kaneohe, HI, explains how drinking affects oral health in particular. 

How Alcohol Affects the Teeth, Tongue, & Gums

1. Staining 

Most alcoholic drinks or the beverages they’re mixed with contain chromogens, which are chemical compounds that react with oxygen to produce distinctive colors. When chromogens enter the mouth, they adhere to tooth enamel, which has likely been weakened by the drink’s acidity. This combination can lead to staining and discoloration over time, even if you brush and floss regularly. 

2. Decay

Most alcoholic beverages are loaded with sugar. Consuming a diet high in sugar makes the teeth vulnerable to decay because the bacteria that cause cavities feed on sugar. Unless you brush or swish water after every sip, the sugar in your beverage will cling to the teeth and tongue, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. 

3. Dryness

If you’ve ever had one too many cocktails and experienced hangover symptoms the next morning, you probably already know that alcohol causes dehydration. When dehydrated, the body produces less saliva, which leads to dry mouth. Since saliva rinses away food particles and bacteria, dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. To combat dehydration when drinking, alternate alcoholic beverages with water.

Regardless if you drink nearly every night or only on special occasions, you should visit the dentist periodically for thorough oral exams and teeth cleanings. If you need a quality provider in Kaneohe, HI, turn to Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS. At her family practice, she and her friendly staff provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages with cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening and restorative procedures like dental implants. Visit the website to learn more about their services, and call (808) 235-2121 to make an appointment with this dentist today.