It doesn’t matter if you drink beer or wine to unwind after a long day at work; here’s what you should know about how alcohol can harm your teeth and why you should avoid drinking alcohol more often than not.
Harmful
The findings of a recent study published in the journal Microbiome suggest that drinking can raise the chance of developing diseases such as cardiovascular disease by altering the microbiome of the mouth, which has ramifications throughout the body. By killing off beneficial bacteria and encouraging the growth of bad bacteria associated with periodontal disease, excessive alcohol consumption can create an imbalance in the germs that are connected with cancer and chronic disease, among other things.
Teeth Stains
Drinking wine, sangria, and even beer more than once a week can also stain your teeth and make your smile appear discolored. These beverages, including as green tea or coffee, contain a high concentration of staining chemicals that become lodged in the natural ridges of your enamel, causing them to appear yellow in color. Although teeth whitening is an excellent remedy, the results are only temporary and can fade more quickly if you consume alcohol on a frequent basis.
Enamel Wear
It was only Cinco de Mayo, and there were plenty of margaritas to go around. Even though it can lead to a wonderful time, consuming too many will soon wear away at your enamel, increasing your risk of developing cavities or gum disease. This is due to the fact that our natural enamel, despite being the strongest component in the human body, may dissolve swiftly when exposed to acids. Alcohol and citrus fruits are quite acidic, and if we consume them in large quantities, they can swiftly harm our teeth. Even worse, if the alcohol we’re drinking has high concentrations of staining agents, these compounds can penetrate fragile enamel and stain your teeth more quickly. Wine and cocktails made with lemon or lime juice are the most acidic beverages.
Sugary Beverages
Sugar consumption has been shown to have a substantial impact on tooth decay and general oral health. Sugar is a food source for specific bacteria in the mouth. When exposed to sugar, these oral bacteria create acid that destroys the gums and can result in cavities in the teeth.
Effects on Oral Hygiene
Alcohol can also have a negative impact on the way you care for your teeth and gums. Drinking to excess is associated with a higher likelihood of skipping oral hygiene at night. By not brushing or flossing your teeth and gums at night, you are giving oral bacteria more time to assault your teeth and gums. Additionally, because alcohol dries out your mouth, oral bacteria flourishes on nights when you’ve been consuming alcoholic beverages. You will experience an increase in the likelihood of developing gum disease and cavities.
The consumption of alcoholic beverages in moderation is acceptable, but it’s crucial to understand how alcohol can damage your general oral health. A dental appointment may be necessary if it has been a long time since your last visit to the dentist. Consult with your dentist about your drinking habits and how they may be affecting your teeth.