Drinking alcohol can cause severe tooth damage. Liquor, beer, and mixed drinks contain high amounts of sugar and acid which break down the tooth enamel that protects your teeth. The end result is cavities, tooth decay and/or gum disease.
Taking preventive measures can help reduce your risk of extensive tooth damage. Visit Fullerton Craft Smiles Dental for a full evaluation. Our team works with you to build a treatment plan tailored to your dental needs.
The Effects Of Alcohol On Your Teeth
Saliva acts as your body’s natural antibacterial cleanser. Drinking alcohol decreases the saliva and prevents it from washing away the bacteria and plaque build-up in the mouth. Excessive drinking puts your oral health at risk. It causes:
- Cavities
- Damage to the soft tissue in the mouth
- Gum recession
- Infections or abscesses in the mouth
- Periodontal disease
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tooth erosion, decay, and loss
Alcohol Stains Your Teeth
In addition to putting your oral and overall health at risk, alcohol stains your teeth. Alcoholic beverages are extremely acidic and contain tannins which are polyphenol found in plants, leaves, bark and fruit skins. Even white wine can stain your teeth because they contain tannins as well. Limiting your consumption of alcohol will prevent any further damage to your teeth, but if you must have that glass of red be sure to:
- brush your teeth immediately after drinking
- rinse your mouth with water
- see your dentist for a regular check-up
Schedule An Appointment
Be sure to keep up with your regular check-ups and maintain a good oral care routine. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Kush Patel, Dr. Krutav Patel and the team at Fullerton Craft Smiles are ready to help you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier smile.