Drinking wine is a pleasurable experience that can allow you to sample flavors from around the world. Enjoying this beverage in moderation may also promote heart health and prevent certain diseases. At the same time, it can have damaging effects on the teeth and lead to more serious visits to the dentists to deal with staining and decay. Fortunately, you can take a few steps to enjoy your wine passion and keep your smile white and healthy. Here's a closer look.

How Wine Affects Oral Health

Wine contains natural dyes and tannins. The latter are pigmented compounds found in the skin, seeds, and stems of grapes, giving wine a slight bitterness and astringency. Though both red and white varietals contain tannins, reds have a higher concentration of these particles. Darkly colored tannins and natural dyes in wine can absorb into enamel, which is the protective outer coating of teeth. This may leave stains and cause discoloration, diminishing the appearance of your smile. 

Red and white wines are both acidic, but the latter often have a higher acid content. Acids are corrosive substances that can erode the enamel and allow bacteria to more easily penetrate teeth, leading to decay and cavities. These harmful microbes may also infect the gums and inner pulp, causing periodontal disease and abscesses. 

Additionally, wine contains sugar. White and sparkling varieties typically contain a higher sugar content than their red counterparts. If sweet residues linger on teeth, bacteria will consume them, causing these microorganisms to reproduce in the mouth. This can also increase the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. 

How to Prevent Problems 

Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your teeth and continue enjoying your favorite wines. Wait about 30 minutes after you finish drinking to brush, as wine may temporarily weaken the enamel, causing your toothbrush to scratch and erode tooth surfaces. It's best to use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, which help remineralize teeth and make them more impervious to discoloration and damage caused by wine consumption.

Swishing your mouth with water between glasses can cleanse dyes, tannins, acids, and sugars from the teeth. It's also helpful to drink wine through a straw, which may minimize direct contact of the fluid with the teeth, keeping your smile bright and preventing dental problems. 

Finally, be sure to visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings. You can also schedule a whitening procedure to take care of stubborn staining.

Promote the appearance and health of your smile with help from S. Jill Spurlin, DMD. This dentist provides teeth whitening, routine cleanings, and dental procedures to teens and adults throughout Enterprise, AL. Call (334) 475-2624 to book an appointment for general or cosmetic dentistry, and visit the website to learn more about how they'll help you maintain your oral health.