Drinks with friends can be fun, but your teeth might not be having a good time. That’s right – alcohol can harm your teeth and gums without you even realizing it. In today’s post, our Homewood dentist shares how alcohol can damage your smile and what to do about it.
Preventive treatments at Signature Smile Arts are the best way to protect and preserve your smile. So, whether you enjoy happy hour or not, call (708) 799-5353 to schedule an exam and cleaning with Dr. Alex Shore in Homewood, IL, today!
Alcohol and Your Enamel
Tooth enamel is tough, but not invincible. Alcohol (especially beer, wine, and mixed drinks) is often acidic. And acid weakens enamel, making teeth more prone to decay and sensitivity.
Our Homewood dentist often sees patients with enamel erosion linked to regular alcohol use. Remember: Once enamel is gone, it never regenerates. That’s why prevention is key.
Sugar: The Sneaky Culprit in Cocktails
Cocktails and flavored alcohols often contain loads of sugar. Sugar sustains the bacteria in your mouth, which produce acids that lead to cavities.
Our Homewood dentist recommends skipping sugary mixers or limiting sweet drinks. If you can’t resist, try sipping water in between to rinse away sugars.
Dry Mouth and Alcohol
Saliva helps protect teeth by cleansing away food particles and bacteria. But alcohol has a drying effect on the mouth. And when your mouth is dry, your risk of decay increases.
Your Homewood dentist might recommend chewing sugar-free gum or drinking lots of water when you drink alcohol. It helps boost saliva and protect your smile.
Staining and Discoloration
Red wine, dark beers, and colored cocktails can stain your teeth. The pigments in these drinks stick to enamel and dull your smile over time.
Our Homewood dentist suggests rinsing your mouth with water after dark drinks. Regular cleanings with Dr. Shore can also help remove surface stains.
Gum Disease and Alcohol
Alcohol doesn’t just affect teeth – it can hurt your gums, too. Heavy drinking is linked to a higher risk of gum disease. That includes redness, swelling, and even tooth loss.
Your Homewood dentist can check your gums during regular exams and catch issues early. Don’t skip those cleanings!
Oral Cancer Risk
Drinking alcohol daily increases your risk of oral cancer by about 40%. That’s why our Homewood dentist screens for signs of oral cancer at every visit.
If you drink often, it’s extra important to keep up with checkups at Signature Smile Arts. Early detection could save your life.
Tips to Protect Your Teeth from Alcohol
Our Homewood dentist recommends these simple tips to enjoy alcohol while protecting your smile:
- Drink water between alcoholic drinks
- Avoid sugary mixers
- Brush and floss before bed
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Get regular dental checkups
Celebrate Your Smile – See a Homewood Dentist Today!
Alcohol can affect your smile more than you might think. Enamel loss, cavities, staining, and gum problems are all real risks. Luckily, our Homewood dentist can help you stay ahead of these issues.
Click here to request a checkup and cleaning at Signature Smile Arts, or contact our clinic in Homewood, IL, at (708) 799-5353 for more information.
