Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can negatively affect your oral health, especially the health of your gums. This article explains more about how alcohol contributes to gum disease and what steps you can take to protect your smile and gum health.
Alcohol Dries Out the Mouth
Alcohol is a diuretic that causes the body to remove fluids from the blood. Drinking it causes a dry mouth. Saliva helps cleanse the mouth and prevent plaque buildup. Without enough saliva, plaque bacteria can thrive, raising the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
It Weakens the Immune System
Regular heavy drinking suppresses your immune system. Your body becomes less able to fight off infections, including gum infections. Gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by plaque bacteria that infect the gums. A weakened immune response allows for more severe gum disease.
Nutritional Deficiencies Occur
Many heavy drinkers suffer vitamin and mineral deficiencies because alcohol provides empty calories without nutrition. A lack of nutrients like vitamin C and calcium can cause gum problems and damage. Additionally, a healthy diet is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Plaque and Tartar Increase
Alcohol has a drying effect that allows plaque to build up. Many people who drink heavily also neglect proper daily brushing and flossing. This plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and provides more surface area for bacteria to collect on teeth. Professional cleanings are needed to remove tartar.
It Impairs Judgment
Excessive alcohol intake impairs judgment and coordination. This makes a person less likely to maintain good oral hygiene habits. After drinking, someone may forget to brush or floss before bed. When intoxicated, a person may become unsteady and accidentally bite or injure their mouth.
Protect Your Oral Health
The occasional drink is fine for most people. However, limiting alcohol to moderate intake will benefit your oral and overall health. Take good care of your mouth and see your periodontist regularly for cleanings.
Dental Blog - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists We post dental blogs to pique your interest and educate our San Antonio community about topics related to dentistry, dental implants, and oral health. Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258, (210) 614-4700, aestheticperiodontist.com, 12/17/2024, Related Phrases: Dental Implants San Antonio TX,
Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can negatively affect your oral health, especially the health of your gums. This article explains more about how alcohol contributes to gum disease and what steps you can take to protect your smile and gum health.