Alcohol may be the life of the party, but it can also be a bit of a pain in the teeth. It’s like inviting a rock band to perform in your living room. Things will surely get out of control. It can leave your chompers chomped on. The professionals in restorative dentistry in Mountain Home, ID, have a thing or two to say about it.
The effect of alcohol intake on teeth is sometimes disregarded. While the occasional social drink may not be harmful, frequent alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of tooth problems. In this blog, we will discuss why you should avoid the constant drinking of alcohol to safeguard your pearly whites.
Damage to Enamel
Acidic beverages, such as cocktails and spirits, can lead to enamel erosion and cavities. Enamel is your teeth’s outermost protective coating. The acidity in alcoholic beverages damages the enamel and makes the teeth more susceptible to decay. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and the need for dental treatments. An occasional swish of water in the mouth when drinking helps.
Dry Mouth
Aside from dehydrating the body, alcohol dries up the mouth area. This is mainly due to the reduction in salivary production. Saliva is important for a healthy oral environment because it neutralizes acids, washes away food particles, and restores the minerals that protect our teeth. On the other hand, bacterial growth thrives in a dry mouth, which increases the risk of plaque formation, gum disease, and bad breath.
Oral Infections
Excessive drinking can weaken the immune system and make the body less capable of battling infections, especially in the mouth. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a serious problem that’s caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It begins with gum irritation and, if not managed, can become worse. Gum disease can result in damage to the teeth and their eventual loss. See a dentist for cavity fillings in Mountain Home, ID.
Increased Risk of Oral Cancer
Drinking alcohol is an established risk factor for mouth cancer. Alcoholic beverages contain ethanol, which can chemically damage DNA in cells and increase the likelihood of cancer. Oral cancer is generally fatal and, therefore, needs aggressive treatment. You can lessen the risk of oral cancer by lowering or eliminating your alcohol use.
Teeth Grinding and Jaw Clenching
Drinking alcohol can cause teeth grinding and jaw clenching during sleep. They place undue strain on your teeth and jaw, and this results in tooth wear, chipping, and an impact on overall tooth health over time. Reduced alcohol consumption can lessen the occurrence of tooth grinding and jaw clenching. It protects your teeth from unnecessary damage.
Conclusion
Too much drinking can result in enamel erosion, dry mouth, gum disease, and an increased risk of oral cancer. It can also lead to teeth grinding and jaw clenching in your sleep. Take proactive steps to safeguard your teeth. I must add here that social drinking is fine. When you do, rinse your mouth with water. Take it from the specialists in restorative dentistry in Mountain Home, ID.
Who needs booze when there’s a tooth to lose? Keep in mind that your smile is an irreplaceable asset. Don’t think twice about checking us out for a radiant grin of protected pearly whites. We focus on well-being and not just teeth at Mountain Home Dentistry Co. Book an appointment by phone or email at 208-587-1111 or info@mtnhomedentistryco.com.