Many people visit the dentist to relieve jaw pain. Although sinus problems and teeth grinding can cause this achy sensation, what you consume could also be to blame. Several popular beverages contain tannins, which are compounds found in plants that affect how your salivary glands function. To understand this can affect your oral health, learn more below.

How Do Tannins Impact Oral Health?

Plants contain tannins, which are compounds that leave a bitter taste in the mouth, as a defense mechanism to keep animals from eating them before they're ripe. Tannins also elevate the flavor profiles of wine, tea, and coffee, but drinking these bitter beverages causes the parotid glands to produce more saliva. This can place strain on the temporomandibular joints just below the glands, causing pain. Additionally, the compounds can also eat away at your enamel and leave unsightly stains on the surfaces.

How Can You Protect Your Oral Health?

Scheduling regular trips to the dentist is the best way to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of tannins. Your dentist will examine your enamel for acid wear and fit you with oral splints and mouth guards to reduce jaw pain if necessary. They'll also provide a thorough teeth cleaning to remove the compound residue. For a home remedy, eat cheese with wine and put milk in coffee and tea, as the dairy products will coat your teeth, stopping the compounds from clinging to your enamel.

To enjoy wine, tea, and coffee while protecting your teeth, contact the dentists at Bellasera Family Dentistry. Located in Matthews, NC, and serving patients throughout Mecklenburg County since 2015, this practice provides general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services to increase comfort, improve self-esteem, and prevent dangerous health problems. Call (704) 321-7929 to schedule an appointment today, or visit them online to learn more about Dr. Loker and Dr. Hukill’s credentials.