Drinking alcohol can take a toll on your oral health. Understand how alcoholic drinks impact your teeth, gums, and mouth to make wise choices and prevent problems.
Increases Risk of Cavities and Erosion
Alcohol has a high sugar content that feeds decay-causing bacteria. This raises your risk for cavities. Alcohol is also acidic, wearing away enamel over time. Eroded enamel exposes delicate tooth layers to increased decay.
Causes Gum Disease and Infection
Heavy drinking enables gum disease by limiting saliva flow, which is a natural protector against germs. Lack of saliva lets bacteria grow, causing gingivitis. Alcohol has an immune-weakening effect that makes gum tissues prone to infection.
Worsens Bad Breath
Alcohol dries out the mouth, reducing cleansing saliva. Bacteria then produce foul compounds that cause unpleasant breath odor.
Darkens Tooth Enamel
Darker-colored drinks like red wine, port, and stout contain pigments that can stain tooth enamel with repeated use. The enamel takes on a yellowish tinge over time that requires whitening to reverse.
Increases Risk of Oral Cancer
Drinking a lot of alcohol increases the chance of getting oral cancer. Alcohol can harm cells in the mouth in a way that leads to cancerous growth. Using both alcohol and tobacco increases this threat. Getting screened regularly is key.
Causes Irritation and Swelling
Drinking alcohol can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth. This leads to swelling and sores in areas like the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks.
Contributes to Gum Recession
Excessive use of alcohol causes vitamin and nutrient deficiencies. Lack of these can lead to receding gums, gum bleeding, and loose teeth. Getting nutrients can improve these issues.
Worsens Dry Mouth
Alcohol dehydrates the body, leaving less saliva to cleanse the mouth. This dryness causes damage to teeth and gums. Drinking water and avoiding alcohol improves dry mouth.
Knowing the oral effects of alcohol will help you make informed choices. Stop drinking and increase diligent hygiene habits to protect your smile. Discuss any concerns with our dentist.
Dentist Bellevue • About Cooley Smiles Bellevue For over 35 years, we've built a reputation for delivering quality general and cosmetic dental services available. Call or schedule an appointment today! Cooley Smiles, 4100 Factoria Blvd SE, Suite C, Bellevue, WA 98006-1262 ^ (425) 998-6998 ^ cooleysmiles.com ^ 9/29/2024 ^ Related Terms: dental office, dental office in bellevue wa, dental clinic
Drinking alcohol can take a toll on your oral health. Understand how alcoholic drinks impact your teeth, gums, and mouth to make wise choices and prevent problems.