03/07/2024
Summer is here, and it’s time to kick back with your favourite drinks under the sun. Barbecues, sun-cream, freshly cut grass, and a refreshing beverage in hand – what could be better?
Today marks the start of Alcohol Awareness Week, so it’s a good time to be mindful of how alcohol can impact our oral health. Wine, in particular, can be very damaging to your oral health. Knowing the do’s and don’ts for drinking wine will keep that summer smile bright.
✨ Sparkling Wine May Not Be Fine… ✨
We all love a glass of sparkling wine at a garden party. However, the combination of alcohol, sugar, and carbonation can be tough on your teeth. Did you know that Prosecco, which makes up 45% of UK sparkling wine sales, is 200 times more acidic than what’s needed to break down tooth enamel? This can lead to a condition known as ‘Prosecco Teeth.’
But don’t worry – you can still enjoy your bubbly! Try using a straw to minimise contact with your teeth and swish water between glasses to rinse your mouth.
🍷 Avoiding the Dracula Look 🍷
Red wine lovers, beware! Those lovely tannins that make red wine so enjoyable also bind to your teeth, turning them a beetroot shade. Plus, the acidity can damage your enamel.
Protect your teeth by drinking water alongside your red wine. Dairy products like cheese can also help by strengthening your enamel with calcium compounds. And remember, brushing and flossing before indulging can reduce plaque that attracts staining compounds.
💧 Beat Dry Mouth 💧
It’s not just wine that’s a culprit; all alcoholic drinks can cause dry mouth (hyposalivation). Saliva is crucial for washing away bacteria and food particles, neutralising acids, and repairing weak enamel.
On hot summer days, stay hydrated to combat dry mouth and protect your teeth. Drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum to keep your saliva flowing. It’ll also help prevent hangovers!
So go ahead, relax with a drink and enjoy the summer sun. Just remember to stay hydrated, maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, and maybe keep some gum handy. Cheers to a healthy, happy summer smile! 🥂😁
