Wine market sales went up 16.8% in 2021, with a steadily growing population of imbibers who enjoy a glass of a vibrant red or crisp white with dinner or at a social gathering. While any expert or enthusiast could give you reasons to love wine, there is always a daunting concern about the damage it could have on your dental care. Fortunately, with extra precautions in place, you don't need to give up this favored libation to keep your teeth white. Here is a guide to how to keep your teeth healthy and white, post happy hour. 

What Does Wine Do to Your Teeth?

Wine contains sugar, acid, and in the case of red wine, tannins and natural dyes that cause detrimental tooth mineralization. While red wine can discolor your smile right away, white wine is just as capable of staining your teeth. Although much lighter in color, white wine is highly acidic. This acidity destroys tooth enamel, leaving it vulnerable to staining. With red wine, you may notice your teeth taking on a slightly purple hue. This is a result of the teeth becoming etched and more porous, absorbing the pigments in your glass of wine. 

How Do You Care for Your Teeth?

One of the best ways to practice dental care while drinking wine is to enjoy foods that protect your teeth in tandem. Enjoying the classic combination of wine and cheese isn't just for the aromatic mingling of flavors. Cheese covers the teeth in a waxy coating that prevents stains from penetrating. Additionally, carrots and celery scrub your teeth while you chew, removing foot particles, stains, and unwanted bacteria. 

While drinking wine, it can also be helpful to have water between sips. This rinses out any lingering acidity in the mouth. Better yet, use a straw for your wine. This will reduce exposure to your teeth altogether. When you get home, avoid brushing your teeth for at least one hour to prevent harmful abrasion to the tooth enamel. Rinse with water, floss, and use fluoride mouthwash, especially if you are heading straight to bed and can't stay awake long enough to brush your teeth. 

A healthy, bright smile is something everyone wants to have. This is why residents of Nicholasville, KY, choose David E. Smith DMD, PSC, as their dentist. Regardless of your age or budget, this dental clinic is dedicated to serving the community’s families with quality dental care. With a variety of general and restorative dentistry services, patients have everything they need to maintain optimal oral care. The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure every patient feels comfortable and calm the moment they step into the door. To learn more about their different services, visit the website. To make an appointment, call (859) 887-4008.