It’s nice to enjoy a drink now and then. But did you know that alcohol can hurt your teeth and gums? Your general dentist in Duncan, OK, shares how your favorite cocktail could be harming your smile. Keep reading to learn how to protect your teeth while still enjoying the occasional happy hour.
Whether you drink adult beverages or not, regular exams and cleanings at Chisholm Trail Smile Center are the best ways to prevent dental problems. So, call (580) 255-4880 to reserve an appointment with Dr. Matthew Bridges in Duncan, OK, today!
Alcohol Dries Out Your Mouth
A general dentist in Duncan, OK, will tell you that alcohol causes dry mouth. That’s a problem because saliva helps wash away food and bacteria. Without enough saliva, your teeth are more at risk for decay.
Dry mouth also causes bad breath. So, if your mouth feels sticky after drinking, that’s alcohol doing its thing. Drink water between alcoholic drinks to stay hydrated and keep saliva flowing.
Sugar and Acid: A Double Trouble
Many alcoholic drinks are loaded with sugar. Think cocktails, wine coolers, and sweet mixed drinks. Sugar sustains the bacteria that cause cavities. That’s bad news for your teeth.
On top of that, drinks like wine and beer are acidic. Acid wears down enamel, which is the defensive outer layer of your teeth. Once enamel is gone, it never grows back, and our general dentist in Duncan, OK, sees this damage frequently.
Staining Is a Real Concern
Red wine, dark beers, and certain liquors can stain your teeth over time. If you drink these often, your smile may lose its brightness. Your general dentist in Duncan, OK, recommends rinsing with water after drinking to limit stains.
You can also chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva, which helps clean your teeth naturally. And, of course, regular cleanings help remove surface stains, too!
Gum Health Takes a Hit
Alcohol doesn’t just hurt your teeth – it also affects your gums. Heavy drinking increases the risk of gum disease. It can also make existing gum problems worse.
Swollen, bleeding gums are signs of trouble. Your general dentist in Duncan, OK, may notice these signs even before you do. That’s why checkups are so important.
What About Oral Cancer?
Drinking alcohol often, especially with smoking, raises your risk of oral cancer. This includes cancer of the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. Luckily, your general dentist in Duncan, OK, screens for oral cancer during every routine visit.
Early detection saves lives. If you notice a sore that doesn’t heal or a lump in your mouth, don’t wait. See your Dr. Bridges right away.
Tips to Protect Your Smile
You don’t have to quit drinking entirely, but smart choices can help protect your teeth.
- Drink water between alcoholic beverages.
- Choose drinks with less sugar.
- Don’t swish alcohol around in your mouth.
- Use a straw when possible.
- Brush and floss regularly.
- See your general dentist in Duncan, OK, twice a year.
Visit a General Dentist in Duncan, OK
Alcohol may be fun in moderation, but it can do serious damage to your smile. Don’t let it sneak up on you! Visit our general dentist in Duncan, OK, to keep your teeth strong, white, and healthy – no matter what’s in your glass!
Schedule your next dental checkup with Dr. Bridges here, or call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880 to protect and preserve your smile today!
