The holiday season is here again, and that means that many people will be enjoying a festive drink or two with friends and family. While partaking in a seasonal beverage can be a great way to celebrate the occasion and create new memories, some traditional holiday drinks can lead to oral health problems if you are not careful. Here’s a brief guide to how you can mitigate the risks that come with two popular holiday libations.
Coffee Can Be Flat or Frothy – and It Can Cause Bad Breath and Dental Stains
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages on the planet, and many people claim that they cannot get through their morning properly if they don’t start it with a cup of java. Some people consume even more coffee during the holiday season because they are socializing with loved ones or trying to warm up after being in the cold weather.
Unfortunately, coffee is slightly acidic, heavy with pigments, and loaded with dehydrating caffeine. The acid in coffee begins weakening dental enamel on contact, leaving the teeth more vulnerable to becoming stained by the dyes and pigments it contains. Since caffeine has a dehydrating effect, it can reduce the drinker’s saliva production, which leaves them more vulnerable to plaque, dental injuries, and bad breath.
Beef and Red Wine Are a Pairing Divine – but the Drink Can Turn Your Teeth Purple
Red wine is renowned across the world for its beautiful color, its tart and robust flavor, and the way it pairs amazingly well with red meat, but it is rich in acid and pigments. Similarly to coffee, the acid in red wine weakens enamel and makes the teeth more vulnerable to staining. Exposing your teeth too frequently to red wine can cause them to develop a purplish color and increase your chances of tooth decay.
How Can I Enjoy These Traditional Holiday Beverages While Keeping My Teeth Safe?
Luckily, you can enjoy coffee and red wine while keeping your teeth in great shape if you consume these beverages in moderation, drink plenty of water, and practice excellent oral hygiene. Limiting your intake of these drinks can vastly reduce your teeth’s exposure to the acids and stain-causing agents they contain, and drinking water alongside them can help wash these substances away from your teeth. After the celebration is over, make sure to brush and floss thoroughly to keep your smile safe from plaque and food residue.
Don’t let the holidays leave unsightly marks on your smile. Making smart decisions when you are celebrating can help your teeth stay in excellent shape for life.
About the Practice
Quiet Corner Dental offers oral health services of the highest caliber to the Putnam community. Led by Drs. Walter and Carolyn McGinn, the staff ensures that each patient receives effective treatment as well as astounding customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more tips on keeping your smile beautiful, contact the office online or dial (860) 928-3723.