Whether it’s a glass of wine or a tropical cocktail, these drinks contain sugar that attracts cavity-causing bacteria. However, this isn’t the only way that alcohol harms your oral health. Here are a few of the other drawbacks of drinking and what dental hygiene habits you can take to offset them.

3 Oral Health Consequences of Drinking Alcohol

1. Wear Away Enamel

Alcohol contains acid which wears away enamel, the protective outer layer that coats teeth. As enamel deteriorates, your teeth become more susceptible to bacteria. Brush and floss after drinking to prevent acid from sitting on teeth and wearing them down. Wait 20 minutes after your last drink because enamel will be weaker immediately after alcohol exposure and can then experience damage from dental hygiene.

2. Promote Stains

The tannins in alcohols like red wine stick to teeth and cause unsightly discoloration. The acid in alcohol further makes enamel more porous, allowing these stains to set. Additionally, as enamel wears away due to alcohol consumption, the dentin underneath it will eventually show. This inner part of the tooth has a yellowish hue and will further mar a white smile. Avoid dark-colored drinks and rinse your mouth out with water between sips.

3. Decrease Saliva Production

Alcohol has a dehydrating effect and slows the production of saliva. Saliva supports good dental hygiene as it clears away debris and particles of food. It also helps counteract an overly acidic pH level in the mouth, thereby protecting enamel. Offset the dehydrating effect by alternating sips of alcohol with water to stay hydrated.

With some simple precautions, you can still enjoy a glass of wine without harming your teeth and gums. Kimberling City Dental Center serving the Tri-Lakes area of Missouri provides all the services you need to keep your smile sparkling, from general dental hygiene to teeth whitening. These professionals have been serving patients for 32 years, providing top-quality care, informed by thorough knowledge of the latest updates in oral health care. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (417) 739-4965 to schedule a dentist appointment.