Alcohol isn’t generally considered healthy,
and parts of its mixed reputation come from its long-term and short-term effects. But how does alcohol affect your oral health? People with alcohol abuse disorder have higher plaque and are three times more likely to experience tooth loss. Aside from this, alcohol is not a good choice for moderate drinkers as well. Here is how it affects your oral health.
Alcohol Causes Staining
The color in beverages comes from chromogens. It is a chemical that attaches to the tooth enamel compromised by the acid in alcohol, staining the teeth. If you prefer mixing your drink with soda, say goodbye to your bright smile because this mixture amplifies the level of acid you consume. If you want to reduce the chances of staining your teeth, you should drink water between sips to clean your teeth.
Alcohol Causes Mouth Dryness
Saliva helps your teeth healthy, and it removes harmful bacteria from the gums as well. When you consume high alcohol drinks, they dry the mouth, leaving your teeth exposed to cavities and decay. Moreover, a dry mouth is an open invitation for bacteria to make their home and start rotting your gums.
Tooth damage from alcohol is amplified if you chew ice or add citrus to your drink. This can severely damage the outer layer of your teeth and might break them. Leading dentists advocate that even a squeeze of lemon can damage your teeth enamel. If you want to keep your oral health in tip-top condition, you need to visit an experienced dentist twice a month. If you are looking for a dentist to check your oral health, you can visit Dr. Dose at Nicholas Dose, DMD. Scheduling an appointment is as easy as dialing (503) 765-7300, and we will recommend a treatment option for you.
