The Effects of Alcohol on Your Oral Health

Hello,

There are lots of popular drinking holes in the area, like the Mount Annan Hotel, Narellan Hotel, Gregory Hills Hotel, Raby Rose Hotel, Plough & Harrow Hotel, MacArthur Tavern, Court Tavern and Ambarvale Hotel. It’s all part of our great Aussie culture.

However, as a dentist, I’d like to give you honest, objective and unfiltered information about alcohol.

Firstly, consumption of alcohol, especially in excess, can lead to serious oral health problems. While many people are aware of the negative effects on the liver and cardiovascular system, here are ways it can damage your oral health:

1. Dry Mouth: The first casualty of alcohol consumption is saliva production. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it dehydrates the body. This dehydration extends to the mouth, resulting in a dry mouth. Saliva is crucial in washing away food particles and neutralising acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, thus preventing disease. A dry mouth can lead to conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and even oral cancer.

2. Tooth Decay and Staining: Alcoholic beverages, particularly wines and spirits, often have a high sugar content and are acidic. This is a lethal combination for your teeth. The sugar acts as food for the harmful bacteria in your mouth, leading to the production of acids that eat away at your tooth enamel, causing decay. The acidity of the drink can also directly erode your tooth enamel. Furthermore, the dark colour of some alcoholic beverages can cause staining on your teeth.

3. Oral Cancer: According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, those who consume alcohol are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-drinkers. Alcohol not only aids in the absorption of harmful carcinogens in the mouth but also its high sugar content can lead to cancer.

4. Gum Disease: Alcohol consumption can lead to gum disease in two ways. Firstly, it causes gum inflammation, and secondly, it impairs the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infection and heal.

The effects of alcohol on your oral health are indeed shocking, but it’s not all doom and gloom. You can take proactive steps to minimise these effects and maintain your oral health:

1. Beware of Mixers: Many of us enjoy a cocktail now and then, but the mixers used in these drinks often contain high levels of sugar, contributing to tooth decay. Consider alternatives like soda water or diet mixers, and always rinse your mouth with water after consuming these drinks.
2. Hydrate: As mentioned earlier, alcohol dehydrates your body, leading to dry mouth. Counter this by staying well-hydrated. Drink plenty of water alongside your alcoholic beverages to keep your mouth moist and help rinse away sugars and acids.
3. Don’t Neglect Your Oral Hygiene Routine: Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular visits to Mount Annan Dental will combat the negative effects of alcohol.
4. Watch for Signs of Trouble: Regular self-examinations of your mouth can help catch issues early. Look for signs like red or white patches, sores that don’t heal, or a persistent sore throat. If any of these signs persist, make an appointment immediately.
5. Eat When You Drink: Consuming food when you drink can help produce more saliva, which helps protect your teeth. It can also help absorb some of the alcohol, reducing its effects on your oral health.
6. Limit Alcohol Consumption: As the saying goes, prevention is better than a cure. The most effective way to protect your oral health from alcohol-related damage is to limit your consumption. If you must drink, limit it to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
7. Use Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouthwash: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks. Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash can protect your teeth from decay.
8. Don’t Smoke: Smoking and drinking are a lethal combination for your oral health. Both activities increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Avoid smoking to protect your mouth from this double jeopardy.
9. Eat a Balanced Diet: A well-balanced diet is essential for your oral health. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, like milk and cheese will neutralise acids in your mouth and strengthen your teeth.
10. Dental Check Up Every Six Months at Mount Annan Dental: Check ups are crucial for detecting any early signs of oral health problems. I can advise you on the best hygiene practices to improve your oral health.

While alcohol has a serious impact on your oral health, the negatives can be mitigated with mindful drinking habits, proper oral hygiene, and regular care at Mount Annan Dental. Drink minimally, wisely, responsibly and mindfully.

Yours sincerely,

Dr Steven Krajewski