We all enjoy a refreshing drink now and then, but did you know that alcohol can affect your oral health? Our Fairfield dentistry clinic wants to help you understand how those cocktails and beers could impact your smile. Keep reading to learn what alcohol does to your teeth and gums – and what you can do to protect them!
Whether you enjoy cocktails or mocktails, dental exams and cleanings with Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., are the best way to protect your smile from lasting damage. Call (203) 335-1011 to reserve an appointment at our Fairfield, CT, dental clinic today!
Alcohol Dries Out Your Mouth
One of the biggest ways alcohol harms your smile is by causing dry mouth. A healthy mouth needs saliva to wash away bacteria and food particles.
When your mouth is dry, harmful bacteria can grow quickly. That leads to bad breath, tooth decay, and even gum disease. At our Fairfield dentistry clinic, we see these issues often in patients who drink regularly.
Sugar and Acid in Alcohol Damage Enamel
Many alcoholic drinks contain sugar and acid, two things your teeth don’t like. Sugary mixers like soda, juice, or tonic water feed the bacteria that cause cavities.
Acidic drinks, like wine or cocktails with citrus, weaken your enamel. Over time, this can cause tooth sensitivity and discoloration. Our Fairfield dentistry clinic recommends using a straw when drinking sugary or acidic drinks to limit contact with your teeth.
Alcohol Stains Teeth
Red wine, dark beer, and colored liquors can stain your teeth over time. If you’re a frequent drinker, your smile may start to look dull or yellow.
To fight stains, our Fairfield dentistry clinic suggests rinsing your mouth with water after drinking. You can also come in for professional cleanings to keep your teeth looking bright!
Heavy Drinking Can Lead to Gum Disease
Long-term alcohol use increases your risk of gum disease. This is because alcohol weakens your immune system and makes it harder for your gums to fight infection.
Swollen, red, or bleeding gums are the beginning signs of gum disease. If you notice these symptoms, contact our Fairfield dentistry clinic right away. Early treatment is the key to saving your smile!
Oral Cancer Risks Increase with Alcohol
Alcohol is a known risk factor for oral cancer, especially when combined with tobacco use. The more you drink, the higher your risk becomes. In fact, evidence suggests that heavy drinkers are five times more likely to develop oral cancers over time.
At our Fairfield dentistry clinic, we perform oral cancer screenings during your checkups. It’s one more reason to visit Dr. Horblitt regularly – especially if you drink alcohol.
Tips for Protecting Your Smile
You don’t have to give up alcohol completely, but you can protect your teeth by following these tips:
- Drink water between alcoholic drinks.
- Choose light-colored drinks over dark ones.
- Avoid sugary mixers.
- Brush and floss every day.
- Visit our Fairfield dentistry clinic twice a year for cleanings and checkups.
Protect Your Smile at Your Favorite Fairfield Dentistry Clinic!
If you’re worried about how alcohol may be affecting your teeth, Gary Horblitt, D.D.S., is here to help. Our Fairfield dentistry clinic offers gentle, personalized care for every smile. We’ll clean your teeth, check for damage, and give you tips to protect your oral health.
Contact our Fairfield, CT, dentistry clinic here, or call (203) 335-1011 to schedule your visit with Dr. Horblitt today!
