If you’re like most people, you enjoy a good drink every now and then. But what you may not know is that alcohol can do some serious damage to your teeth! In this blog post, Charlotte Progressive Dentistry, the top-rated dental clinic in Charlotte, NC, will discuss the effects of alcohol on your oral health and how to protect your teeth from potential damage. 

woman with dry mouth/lips

Dries Out the Mouth

One of the most immediate effects of alcohol consumption is that it dries out the mouth. This is due to the fact that alcohol is a diuretic, which means it causes increased urination. When your mouth is constantly dry, it’s more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease because there’s less saliva to wash away bacteria. 

tooth decay and gum disease

Increases Likelihood of Tooth Decay & Gum Disease

As we just mentioned, dry mouth caused by alcohol consumption can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. But that’s not the only way that alcohol can damage your teeth! Alcohol is also acidic, and when it comes to your oral health, acidity is one of the worst things you can expose your teeth to.

What Alcohol Will Do to Your Teeth

man with tooth pain/cavity

Higher Chance of Cavities

In addition to the increased likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease, alcohol consumption can also lead to an increased chance of cavities. This is because alcohol weakens the enamel on your teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities and other forms of tooth damage. 

enamel damage on teeth

Damages Tooth Enamel

We mentioned that alcohol consumption can damage the enamel on your teeth, and this is definitely worth expanding on. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body, but it’s not indestructible. In fact, it can be eroded by acidic beverages like alcohol. 

If you enjoy drinking alcohol, there are some things you can do to protect your teeth from potential damage. When you need professional teeth cleaning in Charlotte, make sure you come to Charlotte Progressive Dentistry. Contact us to schedule your appointment with us today!