There are a lot of myths about alcohol floating around the internet, so chances are you’ve heard a few about how it affects your teeth. The truth is that excessive alcohol consumption can have a negative impact on your smile! If you’d like to get the record straight, keep reading. This post will list the main ways alcohol can harm your oral health.
Beer is NOT Hydrating
Contrary to what some might think, drinking beer does not count towards your water intake for the day. It’s easy to see why someone would make this assumption, though – most beers are 90% water! Unfortunately, like tea and coffee, the alcohol present in beer is still a diuretic, and will dehydrate your body if you’re not careful.
This is a problem for your oral biome, which needs plenty of moisture to stay healthy and help reduce bacteria accumulation. Dry mouth will increase your risk of developing cavities and other such conditions.
Adding Citrus Can Cause Double Trouble
Adding a splash of lemon, lime, or orange to your favorite alcohol drink might seem like a good way to avoid bad breath, or at least keep your mouth feeling fresh. However, acidic substances – like citrus and alcohol – can wear down your enamel. In reality, you’re making an already harmful beverage more damaging for your teeth.
Alcohol is Strongly Linked to Gum Disease
In case there was any doubt that alcohol can have a direct impact on your oral health, know that several studies show a strong relation between alcohol and gum disease. The chemicals in alcohol impair your immune system, making it more difficult to combat illnesses and regulate inflammation. Not only does heavy alcohol consumption increase your risk of gum disease, but it can also worsen an existing case of the condition.
Minimizing Alcohol’s Oral Effects
The occasional alcohol drink or two won’t instantly invite gum disease into your mouth, but it’s a good idea to mitigate its harmful effects so you can drink safely! Remember to balance your drinks with sips of plain water, try to limit adding more acidity to the mix, and consume in moderation. These tips plus a good oral hygiene routine will help keep your smile bright and healthy.
About the Author
Dr. Annie Yu earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, and has received advanced training from some of the most prominent professionals and organizations in the field. If you need help mitigating alcohol’s negative effects on your oral health, she’ll be happy to offer more tips and tricks! To contact Dr. Yu’s office, call 240-332-1599.