Most of us are aware that alcohol can affect our bodies—it can cause temporary impairment to long-term issues like liver failure if we over-consume. But how does alcohol affect your teeth and gums? At Country Club Dental we want to educate you about things that could affect your dental health. Here’s why responsible drinking is so important for your teeth and gums.
Alcohol and Dehydration
One of the ways alcohol affects your teeth and gums is dehydration. When our bodies are dehydrated, our mouths produce less saliva that helps keep bacteria from building up on our teeth and gums. Bad bacteria forms plaque, which causes tooth decay and leads to gum infections and gum disease.
If you do plan on having a drink, make sure you stay well hydrated. Keep a glass of water nearby to sip on after a few sips of your alcoholic beverage, or drink a glass of water after every alcoholic drink. Staying hydrated throughout the day is also important. You should drink between 2 and 3 liters of water a day, though the amount may vary from person to person.
Alcohol and Sugar
Not all alcoholic beverages are high in sugar, but most certainly are. Alcohol is actually a byproduct of sugar, regardless of the primary ingredient, it is made of. Sugar is one of the great enemies of our teeth. Bacteria use sugar as fuel, so high sugar consumption encourages bad bacteria to grow.
You can still enjoy the occasional drink, just opt for alcohol with less sugar. For example, mixed drinks and sweet wines are usually high in sugar. Instead, try a glass of dry white wine, or a sugar-free hard seltzer. These options are much lower in sugar and friendlier on your teeth and gums.
Alcohol and Teeth Clenching
Since one of the side effects we often feel when drinking is drowsiness, it might be tempting to use alcohol as a sleep aid. However, alcohol actually disrupts our sleep by throwing the chemicals in our brains out of balance. Poor sleep due to alcohol consumption can cause teeth clenching and grinding.
Getting good sleep is an important part of keeping stress at bay. Stress can cause canker sores, make you more susceptible to gum infections, and cause jaw pain. You should avoid drinking before bed to make sure you get the best sleep possible.
Taking Care of Your Teeth and Gums
Alcohol does affect your teeth and gums, but most people can still enjoy the occasional drink and maintain good oral health. When you consume alcohol moderately and responsibly, you can minimize the risk of damage.
If you have questions about whether drinking alcohol is affecting your teeth and gums, ask us at your next appointment. Country Club Dental is your local Flagstaff, Arizona dentist, and we strive to help you get the best dental health possible. Call us at 928-526-4314 or schedule an appointment online today!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (9/17/21). Photo by Vinicius Amano on Unsplash
