14th February 2019

The Effects Of Alcohol On Oral Health

For many people, the consumption of alcohol is typically an activity for the weekends after a long working week. But did you know that drinking alcohol can have a detrimental effect on your dental health? The common ingredients in most alcoholic drinks make for a high sugar content, which can wreak havoc on your teeth. Problems such as gum disease, tooth decay and mouth sores are all an increased risk for heavy drinkers. Alarmingly, alcohol abuse is the second most common risk factor for oral cancer.

Here’s a look at the most common effects of alcohol on oral health and how you can prevent them:

The High Sugar Content

Those on a diet that involves cutting back on sugar may be surprised that reducing alcohol consumption is a key component. This is because alcohol contains many ‘hidden sugars’, which is both bad for your oral health and general health. The bacteria in your mouth thrives on sugar, so by consuming sugar-filled alcoholic drinks, you’re actually fuelling the production of bacteria. This will result in a build-up of plaque and can lead to tooth decay.

Acidic Drinks

Whenever you eat or drink anything acidic, it can linger around your teeth. Alcohol has a range of notoriously high acidic drinks, such as wine and spirits. This can cause your enamel to weaken, while your saliva is working to try and return your mouth to a normal pH balance.

Dehydration and Dryness

Drinks with a particularly high alcohol content can dry the mouth. This can be harmful because saliva keeps the teeth moist, which helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the surface of the tooth. When drinking alcohol, bacteria clings onto the enamel and increases the risk of tooth decay.

Staining Teeth

One of the biggest effects of alcohol on oral health is that it can stain teeth. The colour in beverages comes from chromogens, which attach to tooth enamel that’s been compromised by the acid in alcohol, staining teeth. One way to bypass this is to drink alcoholic drinks with a straw, and to regularly sip water. In particular, beverages such as red wine, sangria and beer can all contribute to the discolouration of teeth. Dark barely and malts typically found in beer can also be just as bad as red wine for staining.


Our gentle airflow polishing system is extremely effective for removal of staining – you don’t have to be a patient at the practice to book an appointment for stain removal.

Preventing the Effects of Alcohol on Oral Health

It’s recommended that whenever you drink alcohol, you also consume water at the same time. This can help to prevent a multitude of problems associated with alcohol for your oral health. Not only can water help to wash the acidity away, but it can also stop dehydration.

Additionally, when it comes to tackling the high sugar content in drinks, swapping the type of alcohol consumed could be beneficial. For example, dry wine can contain roughly 3 grams of sugar. On the other hand, sweet wine such as red wine or sherry, can have up to 8 grams of sugar. A simple swap could greatly reduce the amount of hidden sugars consumed which your teeth will thank you for.

Have Frequent Check-ups

If you’re worried about the effects of alcohol on your oral health it’s best to consult your dentist. Frequent check-ups will ensure you keep on top of any issues that could arise as a result of alcohol consumption. At Dental Solutions, we’re always pleased to welcome new patients. For more information on any of the services we offer, you can fill out our simple contact form. You can also book online through this link: https://gavinismydentist.com/contact-us/.

Back to Blog

contact

Get in touch

Treatment -  Dental Solutions Treatment -  Dental Solutions

General Dentistry

A first-class dental service.

Learn More
Treatment -  Dental Solutions Treatment -  Dental Solutions

Cosmetic Dentistry

Learn the magic of a smile makeover.

Learn More
Treatment -  Dental Solutions Treatment -  Dental Solutions

Teath Straightening

Achieve a straighter smile in months.

Learn More
Treatment -  Dental Solutions Treatment -  Dental Solutions

Dental Implants

Your future smile begins with dental implants.

Learn More
Treatment -  Dental Solutions Treatment -  Dental Solutions

Facial Aesthetics

Start afresh with facial rejuvenation.

Learn More
Our Treatments

Reviews

What our patients say

Excellent
Based on 286 reviews
Mike White
Mike White
2024-01-29
The best experience. When you step through the door you are met by the friendliest receptionist,Which continues through the practice. If you want the best dental care and treatments across the board this is where you need to go.
Charlotte Bell
Charlotte Bell
2023-12-15
I came to dental solutions with severe anxiety of dentists and Lauren was so helpful, kind and patient with me. For the first time in years I've found a dentist who I feel comfortable with. Thank you
Gill S
Gill S
2023-10-27
I had a wisdom tooth extracted by Gavin after having toothache due to my tooth breaking. I was nervous as I had not had a tooth removed by injection before. Gavin was reassuring, explained the procedure fully and it was over quickly with no pain. All staff at the practice are caring, friendly and professional and I have been going for many years. I highly recommend Dental Solutions.
K.WEDGE
K.WEDGE
2023-09-06
Thank you to Gavin and team at Dental Solutions for the superb dental work done yesterday. As well as being highly professional and very good at what they do the place has a great atmosphere which makes going to the dentist a pleasure.
tracy grensinger
tracy grensinger
2023-07-02
Amazing experience. I felt in safe friendly professional hands with all the team . Thank you!
Zoe Manley
Zoe Manley
2023-06-30
Can’t speak highly enough of this practice and in particular Lauren. 2 years ago I walked in and was so nervous I cried just as the sight of the chair. Her and the staff have been so patient and understanding and have worked with me to overcome my phobia. This week I had a filling and was absolutely fine, my family couldn’t believe it. Reception staff are lovely and really accommodating too. So glad I found them, I don’t dread the dentist anymore.
David Partridge
David Partridge
2023-05-10
A really Five Star Dental Practice! Upon arrival I was greeted by their most friendly welcoming receptionists. it seems nothing is 'too much trouble' to them. Gavin is similarly very friendly and the surgery is kitted out with the most high-tech modern equipment. On my first visit Gavin examined my teeth and explained my options to me giving me his recommendation for treatment and reasons why. Their Co-ordinator prepared a detailed quote for my treatment and went through it in detail with me, ensuring I understood everything; she had plenty of time for me as a patient. From the outset I had complete confidence in entrusting them with my dental care and the final results are truly amazing. Gavin and Richard could not have been more professional and my treatment was made as painless as possible. Dental Solutions provide a truly outstanding service and I thank them for my new 'long lost' smile and renewed confidence, especially when dining out and talking with people. I can't recommend them too highly.
Carole Dodwell
Carole Dodwell
2023-05-08
A first class experience from start to finish. Despite being fearful of visiting the dentist, Gavin put me at ease with his gentle unhurried manner. I was surprised at how relaxed I actually felt undergoing treatment for a crown and the removal/replacement of front teeth veneers. Having felt self conscious about my front teeth for a long time, I decided to have my old veneers replaced. The results were amazing and far exceeded my expectations. What Gavin achieved was nothing short of a work of art, boosting my confidence tenfold. The practice itself is very welcoming, the customer service excellent and the staff are all very friendly and kind. I cannot recommend this dental practise highly enough.
Nick Halliwell
Nick Halliwell
2023-04-28
I recently needed some urgent treatment and after trying a couple of dentists in the area, dental solutions were the only dentist that agreed to see me, genuinely nobody else showed any interest in helping me. The receptionist I spoke to initially was super compassionate and understanding and did all she could to get me in asap. I saw Lauren for all of my appointments, and I’ve now had: a composite filling, root canal and emax crown and just yesterday had a wisdom tooth extracted. I don't know what Lauren does but I have had zero pain or discomfort with any treatments during and after. I'm extremely happy with the results of her work. She definitely knows her stuff and filled me with the utmost confidence whilst in the chair! I literally cant find any fault with any of the experiences I have had so far. They go the extra mile and do it with a smile. What more can you ask for?! Definitely my dentist for the foreseeable future! Thank you Lauren and everyone!
Pete Taberham
Pete Taberham
2023-04-07
Had my initial consultation with Lauren, truly professional and extremely friendly. She explained all my options in detail and following discussions opted for veneers and can't wait to see the end result.
Google Rating
4.9
Google Rating
Google Rating