It’s October again, which means in many places it’s time for Oktoberfest! If you’re a beer fan, this is your time to shine. But before you raise a glass to your favorite malt beverage, take a moment to understand the impact it has on your oral health, so you can enjoy responsibly all year long!
Alcohol and Dehydration
One of the downsides to alcohol of any kind is that it can cause dehydration, not just in your body but in your mouth, too. This means that bacteria have a welcoming environment to thrive and increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. Thus, if you do enjoy the occasional brew, be sure to follow it with a glass of water and brush your teeth when you’re done.
Sugar, Sugar
While it may not taste particularly sweet, beer contains alcohol, which in turn contains sugar. Sugar clings to the teeth and is devoured by the bacteria living in your mouth, which then secrete acids that eat away your tooth enamel. This can then cause tooth decay and cavities.
Tooth Stains
Though beer isn’t loaded with dark tannins like wine, it’s still dark enough to stain your teeth, so be sure to rinse your mouth out when you’re done drinking and brush well to avoid permanent discoloration.
The Good News About Beer
Though there are a few ways Beer can harm your teeth, believe it or not it has a few benefits, too. These include:
- Beer (especially lighter ales and IPAs) is packed with calcium that’s good for your teeth and bones
- The yeast and good bacteria found in beer can actually serve as an antibacterial and kill the bad bacteria in your mouth
The bottom line? Like any alcohol, beer is safe to drink in moderation if you are at least 21 and in good health. If you do decide to indulge, be sure to drink it with plenty of water, and brush and floss your teeth well afterwards. Cheers!
About Our Practice
At Distinctive Dentistry, our team of highly skilled dentists works together to provide a wide range of dental treatments in one convenient location. We use cutting-edge technology to make your procedure go faster and more precise, and we never try to upsell you on services you don’t need or want.
To schedule an appointment for a cleaning and exam, please visit our website or call us today at 770-445-6606.
