Halloween is quickly creeping up. It’s a day full of frights and fun, with many themed events going on. While children plan routes to get the best treats, the adults might have a different night ahead. You might be ready to let loose and prowl for an alcoholic drink or two with friends. But if you aren’t careful, then these mischievous beverages might play a trick on you! Keep reading to learn how they can affect your smile before you celebrate the holiday and ways to protect it.
1.) Scary Sugar Content
It may not seem like alcohol has a lot of sugar, but they are often combined with other sweet drinks and juices. These can make the entire thing tastier, but they increase your risk for cavities. The bacteria in your mouth eat the particles that get stuck in your teeth and produce an enamel-dissolving acid. This can lead to decay that should be kept to the zombies in your favorite scary movies!
2.) Slithering Stains
You are also likely to be at a higher risk of staining because of these drinks. Your enamel becomes a bit weakened when you have them, so dark particles in colored drinks can slide their way into this top layer a bit easier. Red wine is often a culprit that many people are already aware of, but beer and other types of liquor can also be a cause!
3.) Dreary Dehydration
One side effect of alcohol is dry mouth. It may not seem so because you might have another drink after finishing one, but this can be harmful to your oral health. Without producing enough saliva, you can’t effectively wash away harmful bacteria. They will linger on your smile longer and increase your odds of developing a cavity.
How Can I Protect My Smile This Halloween?
While there are several ways that drinking can be bad news for your grin, there are things you can do to avoid the risks above. To help make sure you’re the only mischievous one this Halloween instead of the bacteria in your mouth, you can:
- Drink a glass of water in between your alcoholic beverages
- Limit your drinks or any sugary combinations
- Do your oral hygiene routine after enjoying your time, but wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
The scares for this season should be kept to your friends and family instead of your oral health! You can still enjoy the holiday while taking care of your smile. Keep the tips above in mind while you go out and create memories that you’ll look back on with nostalgia.
About the Practice
At 21st Century Dental of Irving, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists. We are here to help you protect your teeth by being proactive about your treatments. Through regular checkups and cleanings, we can catch issues while they are early and let you keep a problem-free grin. The holidays are a time to indulge, but we are here to ensure your mouth stays the best it can be afterward. If it’s time for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (972) 255-3712.