It is the time of year
for football tailgating and the start of the holiday party season. With these events
there is an increase in alcohol consumption.
The main threat to
your teeth and gums comes from the sugar content in alcohol (including beer)
which, when broken down in your mouth, creates an acidic breeding ground for
bacteria and plaque.
There is also a strong
clinical link between the excessive consumption of alcohol and head and neck
cancers. In fact, while it can increase the risk of getting these diseases if
used together with tobacco, alcohol can pose a risk in its own right.
Limiting the Damage
§ Most importantly, after a night out, you
should brush and floss your teeth before going to bed. If you often forget to
do this, leave your tooth brush on your pillow before you go out to remind you
to spend a couple of minutes brushing.
While you’re drinking try to swish a mouthful of water around every so often to increase the saliva flow and rinse away sugars and acid in your mouth
On your way home, chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow and clear the mouth of harmful sugars and acid.
For more information or to schedule an appointment call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. today at (800)
223-0801.
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