Did you know only 16% of people consider the effect alcohol has on their oral health? Why does red wine stain your teeth? Over the Christmas period, it is particularly important to keep an eye on how much your drinking…
Red wine is popular and delicious but comes at a price – that annoying staining. Red wine contains strong pigments known as chromogens which are responsible for that staining. As your tooth enamel isn’t 100% smooth and contains cracks and irregularities, this pigments can weave itself into these vacant spaces and cause discolouration if you consume red wine on a regular basis and do not drink enough water. The acid will also soften your tooth enamel which actually leads to the calcium leaving your teeth – this in turn, weakens the its structure. Red wine also contains tannins and acid which are responsible for staining.
Wine has a similar effect to tea, coffee and fizzy drinks, promoting enamel erosion.
What are the ways around the damage done by red wine?
- Floss and brush your teeth become drinking a glass of wine – and keep a glass of water on hand throughout the evening to keep your mouth hydrated, as red wine dries out your mouth and reduces the production of saliva. This means the food particles in your mouth remain for longer and bacteria are allowed to multiply.
- Eat and drink simultaneously. Foods such as cheese and crackers can act as an obstacle for the acid found in red wine and its effects on your teeth. Foods full of fibre and low in sugar will help produce more saliva and in turn act as a natural scrub on your teeth, washing away the dark stains.
- Use whitening toothpaste – this type of toothpaste helps to remove any surface stains that build up on your teeth overtime.
If you would like advice on how to stay healthy this Christmas, please do not hesitate to contact us and we can arrange a consultation for you.