Do you like to kick back and enjoy a pint or two of beer on the weekends? Whether it’s to celebrate a special occasion or hanging out with friends for Sunday football, many people like to drink alcohol for a carefree experience. Although you may be aware that these beverages aren’t good for your overall health, you might not know how they can affect your teeth in the long run. Keep reading to learn five common myths about the relationship between alcohol and oral health!
Myth #1: Alcohol Maintains Clean Teeth
While alcoholic products are capable of cleaning off most things, they won’t benefit your teeth in the same way. Most of these beverages are high in acidity, meaning they can gradually wear down and weaken your enamel. This can cause your teeth to become more vulnerable to tooth decay as well as staining. Drinking too much can also lead to dry mouth or provoke vomiting, which is harmful to your smile.
Myth #2: Alcohol Has Zero Effects on Oral Health
Not only can alcoholic beverages discolor your teeth, but they can also put you at greater risk of more serious oral health issues, such as oral cancer. In fact, alcohol abuse is the second biggest cause of this condition. Alcohol can also cause you to develop dry mouth, which will promote enamel erosion and allow plaque and tartar to accumulate. The more often you drink, the higher your likelihood of getting cavities and gum disease.
Myth #3: Adding Citrus to Alcohol Is Better For Your Teeth
Do you like to add lemon, lime, or even orange juice to your drinks? While this can make the beverage sweeter, squeezing a small amount of citrus into it will increase the acidity. This means the ingredients in your drink may wear down your tooth enamel, leading to decay, sensitivity, and other problems later on.
Myth #4: Alcohol Doesn’t Stain Your Smile
Many alcoholic beverages are made from malts and darker barley. If you tend to consume dark-pigmented beers, it can end up showing in the color of your smile. Your pearly whites will change into a dimmer, yellow-brownish shade that may require cosmetic dental treatment to get rid of.
Myth #5: Alcoholic Beverages Can Keep You Hydrated
Although you might consume plenty of alcoholic fluids, it doesn’t mean these beverages will keep you hydrated. These drinks will dry out both your mouth and your entire bodily system, causing bad breath, bacterial growth, plaque buildup, and dehydration. If left unchecked, overconsumption can also lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Try to drink more water throughout the day, especially if you like to enjoy alcohol.
Keep your pearly whites in mind the next time you choose to kick back with a few drinks. By saving these for special occasions or cutting them out entirely, your body and smile will thank you for it!
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati earned his dental doctorate from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He’s also a member of several organizations like the American Academy of Periodontology and the Massachusetts Dental Society. He offers a wide variety of advanced and comprehensive services, including dental checkups/cleanings, fluoride treatment, and oral cancer screenings. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 978-531-2185.