Serving areas of Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI
Whether celebrating a special occasion, hanging out with friends, or unwinding after work, you may want to consume alcoholic beverages. However, most people do not realize the impact that alcohol has on their oral health. Just as food and other beverages compromise your teeth, alcohol is no exception. So, on to the burning question – just how bad is alcohol for your teeth? The answer is right here on our blog today.
The Acid in Alcohol is Not Your Friend
All alcoholic beverages have a specific level of acidity. The acid in alcohol erodes the enamel or protective coating on your teeth, which can easily increase the risk for sensitivity and tooth decay. Although it may seem that most of the damage is from fruity mixed drinks and cocktails because of the high levels of sugar, the acid is from the alcohol itself. However, even a gin and tonic can cause problems with your teeth when you consume too much. The damage is not caused by the consumption of one beverage but slowly progresses with the more alcohol you consume. The effects of the acid in alcohol could possibly compound the damage if you go to sleep without brushing your teeth after a night of drinking.
In addition to the beverages that have fruit juice or sweetened alcohol ingredients, a simple liquor and soda beverage could cause just as much damage. In that case, the combination of the liquor and soda could compound the acid level and increase tooth destruction. Also, if food is not consumed while drinking alcoholic beverages, the damaging effects could continue.
How to Protect Your Teeth
The best way to protect your teeth from acidic beverages is to limit the consumption of these products, and be sure to take proper care of your teeth afterward. You could also try drinking through a straw. When you sip your beverage through a straw, it limits the contact the beverage has with your teeth, reducing the risk of developing cavities, or creating other damage. Once you have finished your beverage, it is recommended to drink a glass of water. The water should help restore the pH balance in your mouth and rinse the remaining acids and sugars from your teeth and gums.
As a tip for when you consume any acidic beverage, be sure to drink water after your beverage instead of brushing your teeth. Even though brushing your teeth seems logical to remove the acids and sugars, it could spread high levels of acid around your mouth, causing more damage to tooth enamel. Therefore, drinking water or waiting about 30 minutes to brush your teeth after consuming an alcoholic or acidic beverage is best to protect your tooth enamel.
Dentist in Okemos, East Lansing, and Lansing
Drinking responsibly and knowing the risks of consuming alcoholic beverages is part of being an adult. If you choose to drink alcoholic beverages, remember to take care of your teeth to reduce possible damage. Enjoy a glass of water between beverages to reduce damage to your dental enamel and manage your level of intoxication. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact your dentist in Lansing Tenaglia Smiles by calling (517) 347-6733 or requesting an appointment on our website.