Alcohol and Your Oral Health

During the holiday season, most enjoy partaking in social festivities, which could often involve drinking. Whether it’s cocktails on a night out with friends or a glass of wine over a home-cooked meal with family, we sometimes tend to consume more alcohol during this time. As fun as it may be, it is safe to say that we start to feel its impact once January rolls around.

In order to help our bodies recover, some choose to have a dry January, one where they do not drink for the entire month. While it may seem drastic to some, most people are unaware of how bad alcohol can be for our oral health as well as overall health.

Some of the negative implications of drinking are:

1. Alcohol dries out our mouth: When our mouth is dehydrated, we tend to produce less saliva, which allows oral bacteria to grow and cause real damage to our teeth.
2. Alcohol is acidic: Acidic drinks can erode the enamel on our teeth. With less enamel to protect our teeth, we are at risk of experiencing tooth sensitivity or even pain.
3. Alcohol has sugar: A lot of alcoholic beverages, like beer, contain large amounts of sugar. Consuming large amounts of sugar found in drinks could increase our risk of tooth decay.
4. Oral Cancer: According to a study, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol has been linked to oral cancer and other upper aerodigestive tract cancers. People who drink in excess increase their risk because alcohol encourages the growth of bacteria.
5. Stained Teeth: Red wine, sangria, and similar dark-coloured drinks can turn your teeth red and may result in long-lasting discoloration and dullness.

Where is the Happy Middle?

Sure, abstaining from alcohol would be extremely effective when improving our oral health. However, instead of going cold turkey, it is better to find a happy medium.

Here are 3 tips to help reduce the negative impact of alcohol:

1. Designated Drinking Times: Restricting drinking to mealtimes would help reduce the exposure of our teeth to acidity.
2. Drink Water: Drinking water after having an alcoholic beverage can help not only wash the sugar away, but also adjust the pH levels in our mouth.
3. Use Alcohol-Free Mouthwash: Like water, mouthwash can help get rid of acidity from alcoholic beverages. Certain mouthwashes can also help protect our teeth by coating them in a protective substance that fights against gum disease or sensitivity. Make sure to read the label when buying a mouthwash to ensure you are getting the right care for your teeth!

With a little extra attention and care to your oral health, it is okay to enjoy yourself this holiday season. Just remember, moderation is key, make sure you rinse your mouth after, and don’t forget to schedule a checkup with us once the festivities are over!

• the brain (Alzheimer�s Disease),
• the heart (Heart Disease),
• the lungs (Pneumonia),
• in joints (Arthritis),
• the pancreas (Diabetes),
• and the increased likelihood of women giving birth prematurely.

Canadian Dental Association�s 5 Steps to a Healthy Mouth

• Keep Your Mouth Clean
  • Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day
  • Floss everyday, without flossing you miss 1/3 of your tooth surface
  • Wait at least 20-30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth
• Check Your Mouth Regularly
  • Look for signs of gum disease:
    • Red, shiny, puffy, sore, or sensitive gums
    • Bleeding when you brush or floss
  • Look for signs of oral cancer:
    • Bleeding or oral sores that don�t heal
    • Red or white patches in the mouth
    • Small lumps and thickened areas in the mouth
• Eat Well
  • Good nutrition helps build strong teeth and gums
  • Avoid foods high in sugar
  • Eat healthy snacks like cheese, nuts, vegetables, and non-acidic foods
• See Your Dentist Regularly
  • Regular dental exams and professional cleanings can prevent and detect problems before they get worse
• Don�t Smoke or Chew Tobacco
  • Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause other complications in the body and the mouth; gum disease, tooth loss, and heart disease.

Arm Yourself with Dental Facts This Month

Why do all this work without understanding the reason behind it? Here are some reasons and statistics why you and your family should maintain a good dental hygiene routine.

• Oral pain can be so bad that it affects the way you eat and speak
• Having a brighter smile, fresher breath, and control over your body can result in better self-confidence positively influencing your ability to socialize
• Every year approximately 3,200 Canadians are diagnosed with oral cancer and 1,050 deaths from oral cancer occur.
• 15%-20% of people worldwide aged 34-44 have severe gum disease
• Children need help brushing their teeth until they are eight years old

Dental Tips and Tricks for a Healthier Lifestyle

Is it possible to lose weight just by brushing your teeth? Wondering how to enjoy your favourite drink without causing too much damage to your teeth? Tackle April with these tips and hacks to get that bright and fresh smile while also increasing your happiness at the same time.

• Consume a lot of soft drinks (even sugar-free ones)? Drink them quickly and use a straw to avoid extended contact with teeth to limit the risk of eroding teeth enamel.
• By brushing your teeth it signals that you have finished eating and it may help with portion control
• Make sure to brush for at least 2 minutes each time, following the contours of your teeth
• Looking for something to chew on? Have a piece of sugarless gum to make your dentist happy
• Get your child involved in preparing their own lunch � take them grocery shopping and guide them into making good choice by giving them healthy food ideas
  • Fruits and Vegetables: cut up peppers, celery, or carrots
  • Protein: Tuna on whole-wheat bread with lettuce
  • Dairy: low-fat yogurt
  • Drinks: opt for water, milk, or 100% pure fruit juices

In this oral health month, take the time to schedule your next dental check-up with U Shine Dental. Come and see how you can do more to achieve a better and healthier lifestyle starting with your mouth.