When it comes to the care of your teeth, what you eat and drink can have the same impact as improper brushing and flossing. For instance, alcohol is notoriously hard on your smile, which is why most dentists advise drinking it in moderation. The following are just a few of the many effects alcohol has on your oral health and what you can do to prevent them.

Drinking Alcohol & Dental Health

Staining

Stained teeth are a common result of alcohol overconsumption. Chromogens, which give different types of alcohol their color, cling to tooth enamel after it’s been degraded by acids. Red wine is the worst culprit, but mixing dark liquors with soda can also increase discoloration. You can reduce these risks by drinking water after every beverage, which helps wash away some of the acids.

Dry Mouth

Saliva is key in the fight against tooth decay. When you have dry mouth, bacteria cling to teeth and contribute to the development of cavities. Dry mouth is also associated with increased rates of gum disease, which is caused by plaque lingering along the gum line. Along with staying hydrated, you can also reduce your alcohol intake to prevent issues with dry mouth.

Increased Risk of Cancer

Alcohol abuse is linked to an increase of oral cancer risk. This is especially true when drinking and smoking are combined, as some researchers believe that alcohol’s drying effect increases the mouth’s ability to absorb carcinogens found in tobacco. Along with ensuring your alcoholic drink intake falls into the moderate range, you can also quit smoking or never start in the first place if you’re concerned about developing oral cancer.

Tooth Decay

Many cocktails and certain beers are loaded with sugar, so as with any sweet beverage, vigilance is important to prevent tooth decay. As you would do to help prevent staining, drink plenty of water to keep your mouth clean after enjoying a sugary drink and brush your teeth an hour or so afterward, if possible. 

This holiday season, William B. Collier Jr., DMD and the rest of his dedicated team are asking their patients to consider their alcohol intake and practice good dental hygiene habits for the sake of their teeth. They also recommend coming in for a routine checkup if it’s been a while. If you need restorative procedures, this dental office also offers the placement of crowns and bridges to bring back the beauty of your smile. Call (334) 347-5026 today to schedule a same-day appointment in Enterprise, AL. If you’d like to learn more about available services, be sure to visit them online.