Dark liquids like red wine will stain teeth, especially if you drink it on a regular basis. Fortunately, you don’t have to choose between your love of wine and a dazzling smile. Simply take some preventive measures and work with your dentist, and you’ll be able to sip your favorite beverage worry-free.

A Wine-Lover’s Guide to Maintaining a White Smile

1. Rinse

After you’ve had a glass of wine, you can get the staining residue off your teeth by rinsing out your mouth. If you’re at home, floss your teeth and use a fluoride mouthwash. Don’t brush, as wine is acidic and will weaken your enamel temporarily, so brushing within an hour of drinking can cause damage. If you’re out at a restaurant, order a sparkling water with your glass of wine and trade off between the two, swishing with the water to clean your teeth.

2. Use a Straw

You may not want to use this one in public, but if you’re drinking at home a straw is recommended. The straw keeps the wine from touching the front of your teeth to protect your enamel. Use this technique for other dark beverages as well, such as tea, coffee, and sodas.

3. Get Teeth Whitening From Your Dentist

Even if you’re careful with straw use and rinsing, your teeth will darken over time with everyday surface stains. Visit your dentist for a professional teeth whitening treatment. This will remove all the surface stains and some of the deeper ones as well. 

If you’re a wine-lover interested in keeping your smile bright, enlist the help of Timber Drive Dental. For more than 20 years, they have offered a range of general and cosmetic dentistry services to the people of Rhinelander, WI. Owner and dentist Dr. Paco Fralick uses the latest industry techniques to help you maintain your oral hygiene and a beautiful smile. They even have flexible payment plans that fit your budget. Contact them online or at (715) 365-1800 to schedule an appointment.