Alcohol and Your Smile: 3 Common Myths About Drinking and Oral Health

Many people enjoy alcohol with friends at a dinner party or to soothe nerves at a social event. Despite how common drinking is, there are many misconceptions surrounding this popular beverage and its impact on your oral health. Excessive alcohol consumption can harm your teeth and gums more than you think! Curious about what it can do to your smile? Read on to debunk three common myths about alcohol and dental health.

Myth #1: Alcoholic Drinks Are Hydrating

Most beers are approximately 90% water, so it’s easy to think that they’ll count toward your water intake, but they actually do the opposite. Alcohol is considered a diuretic. It causes the body to increase urine production, which can lead to dehydration and dry mouth. With hindered saliva production, it’s harder to wash away harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay or gum disease.  

Myth #2: Adding Citrus to an Alcohol Beverage Makes It Better

Citrus garnishes like lemon, lime, or orange might give your drink a refreshing twist, but when it comes to your mouth, it can actually do more harm. Citrus and alcohol are both acidic, meaning that they can wear down the top layer of your teeth. When things like saliva or plain water don’t wash them away, they can slowly dissolve enamel.

Myth #3: Oral Health and Alcohol Consumption are Unrelated

While enjoying a drink here and there won’t instantly give you gum disease or tooth decay, excessive drinking can increase your risk of these dental issues. Some alcohols may not contain much sugar themselves, but they are often mixed into juices and sodas that have a high sugar content. As you drink, they can coat your teeth’s surface and thin your enamel.

Also, there have been several studies that show a link between alcohol and gum disease! Heavy consumption can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight illnesses. One research showed that regular alcohol users had more plaque and gum bleeding than nondrinkers, both of which are common symptoms of gum disease.

How Can I Protect My Smile When Drinking Alcohol?

While light to moderate alcohol consumption won’t throw a wrench into your oral health, it’s worth knowing how you can protect your smile so you can drink safely. Here are some tips to minimize the harmful effects of alcohol:

• Take sips of plain water in between drinks
• Limit how much acidity you add to your beverages
• Be sure to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash after drinking alcohol

Many misconceptions about oral health and alcohol can be harmful to your smile if you choose to believe them. To ensure your pearly whites stay bright and healthy, be sure to drink in moderation and follow these simple tips!

About the Practice

At Arbor Dental Care, you benefit from a father-daughter dental duo that helps you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. We believe in preventing dental issues, such as tooth decay and gum disease, before they become more severe problems. We are here for you when you need a regular checkup and cleaning. If you need help keeping your grin safe while enjoying an alcoholic drink, schedule an appointment or call us at (630) 969-2310.