New Smile Dental Group Trusted Dentists in Surrey: Negative Effects of Alcoholism on Dental Health

Friday 25 April 2014

Negative Effects of Alcoholism on Dental Health

More often than not, the negative effects of alcohol are overlooked when it comes to dental health. Alcohol, much like tobacco, can have serious impact on the dental health of a person. The condition of the teeth and gums can clearly indicate whether a person is addicted to alcohol and how bad is the damage to the oral health.

Effect of alcoholism on your teeth and gums

Alcohol changes the internal environment of the mouth into acidic. As it is known that alcohol is a drying agent, it results in the drying up of the mouth and reduction in saliva for some time. The acidic environment causes erosion of the tooth enamel and even deterioration of the gums. Alcohol consumed in less quantity and occasionally do not have an adverse effect on the teeth and gums. However, regular consumption and long-term addiction can result in cavities, tooth loss and damage to the gums and the mouth interiors.

Sweetened alcohol is equally bad!

Today, there are many sweetened liquors in the market that result in dental problems. The high sugar content in the alcohol adds on to the damage. They corrode the enamel and result in cavities and even loss of teeth.

Advice for managing dental health

It is advisable to brush your teeth 20 minutes after consuming your drink. It takes saliva this much time to remineralize the tooth enamel that was softened by the alcohol. Hence, brush your teeth only after 20 minutes. However, it needs to be understood that even if you brush your teeth often and every time you consume alcohol, your teeth will be negatively affected if you are addicted. People who consume alcohol in excess have poor dental health even after brushing their teeth regularly. Over a period of time, alcohol takes a toll on the health and well-being of your teeth and gums.

The above points clearly elaborate the role of alcohol in deteriorating the health of your teeth and gums. Hence, it is advised that you either stop consuming alcohol or consume it in moderation. If you happen to be amongst the many who frequently take alcohol with meals then you are inviting trouble for your dental health. Moreover, if you have successfully got over the habit, it is important to visit a qualified Surrey dentist. He or she will be in a better position to determine the condition of your teeth and gums and what best treatment you require.

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