Many adults enjoy indulging in alcoholic beverages from time to time, and most are aware of the side effects of this indulgence. Besides impacting your overall health, these drinks can also affect your teeth. Fortunately, proper dental care will help you maintain a healthy smile. In the guide below, find out more about the relationship between alcohol and oral health.

Negative Effects of Alcohol

An alcoholic drink's color comes from chromogens. These compounds attach to the enamel that's been weakened by the beverage's acidic ingredients, leading to discoloration. Drinks mixed with dark soda and red wine are the most common culprits of stained teeth.

Alcohol dehydrates both your body and mouth, reducing the amount of saliva. This fluid protects your teeth by washing away bacteria that could wear down the enamel. Therefore, a lack of saliva leaves your smile vulnerable to plaque, the sticky biofilm responsible for oral health issues like tooth decay and gum disease.

How to Prevent These Problems

Abstaining from alcohol is the most effective way to avoid oral issues. However, you don't have to give up drinking entirely, as there are ways to mitigate its effects. One step you can take is switching to drinks clearer in color, like light beers, clear spirits without sodas, and low-sugar wines. These options contain fewer teeth-staining properties.

Drinking water while consuming alcohol will also help preserve your smile. That's because the moisture will combat dehydration by maintaining saliva production. You should also practice proper dental care and brush and floss after a night out. These measures will help eliminate plaque on your teeth, preventing the substance from building up and causing oral issues. 

If you regularly enjoy alcoholic beverages, you can ensure your teeth are healthy by visiting William B. Collier Jr., DMD, in Enterprise, AL. With over 35 years of experience, this dentist offers preventative and remedial dental care solutions. From regular checkups and cleanings to whitening treatments, they'll help mitigate the effects of alcohol on teeth. Call (334) 347-5026 to schedule an appointment, or visit his website to learn more about their services.