Alcohol can have many detrimental effects on your body. Aside from increasing cancer risk and contributing to liver damage, over-consumption of alcoholic beverages can also have an impact on the state of your mouth. As a trusted dentist in Statesboro, GA, Larry G. Hubbard, DDS urges you to think about your oral health the next time you consider cracking open a beer or relaxing with a glass of wine.

3 Ways Alcohol Can Affect Your Teeth According to a Georgia Dentist

1. Dry Mouth

Saliva keeps your mouth healthy by limiting the impact of bacteria. When your mouth dries out, bacteria can cling to teeth, thereby causing complications like gum disease and cavities. The higher the alcohol content, the dryer your mouth will become. Boosting saliva production is key in this case, which can be accomplished with a mint or a piece of sugar-free gum.

2. Stains & Discoloration

Red wine contains tannins, which are known to stain teeth over time. When combined with this beverage’s dark red hue, the acids in wine can actually degrade tooth enamel and allow liquid to seep in. Beer and mixed drinks also accelerate staining, especially when mixing with soda—which contains a massive amount of sugar. You can minimize staining by drinking alcohol with a straw and rinsing with water between sips.

3. Tooth Decay

Many alcoholic beverages also contain large amounts of sugar. Sugar feeds bacteria that live in the mouth, thereby increasing the risk of tooth decay—which can result in the need for a root canal or even extraction. Sweeter drinks, like some varieties of wine and mixed drinks, contain sugary ingredients and are the biggest culprits in this case.

Drinking only in moderation is not only good for your overall health, but it can also benefit your smile. That’s why Larry G. Hubbard, DDS recommends his patients take up essential healthy living habits, including proper dental care. Learn more about their complete listing of services, including dental implants and dentures, by visiting the website. You can also schedule your appointment with a skilled Statesboro dentist by calling (912) 764-9891 today.