Wine and Your Teeth

Drinking wine can be a relaxing social activity and can even promote cardiovascular health. It may not be as healthy for your teeth, however, according to our cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills. Wine can leave a film on your teeth and can even erode the enamel.

According to a study that was published in “Nutrition Research,” the type of wine you drink may affect your teeth as much as the amount of wine you drink. White wine generally has higher levels of acid, which erodes dental enamel and leach calcium from teeth. The study revealed that Riesling was the most acidic wine and the most likely to damage teeth.

Brushing after enjoying a glass or two of wine can lead to even more damage. Brushing within 30 minutes of drinking wine can scratch the enamel that is already softened by the acids in the wine. Wait for half an hour to allow your saliva to neutralize the acids, and then gently brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Eating cheese with your wine can also help reduce the amount of damage because the cheese has been shown to neutralize the wine and is a rich source of calcium.

Wine can also stain your teeth. Both red and white wines contain acids that can leave your teeth more porous and prone to staining and tannins, which bind to the structure of the teeth. Rinsing with water after a meal with wine may help reduce the staining. Practicing good dental hygiene can also be helpful but may not be enough to combat all stains. Teeth whitening treatments may be an option if your teeth are heavily stained by wine and other substances.

Contact our expert in teeth whitening in Beverly Hills to learn more or to schedule your next consultation.

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