Helpful tips when you sip
Readers ask, we answer:
Is red wine bad for my teeth?
Hi, Michael! Sipping red wine in moderation can have plenty of health benefits. It could reduce your risk of a heart attack, combat inflammation, enhance your memory, boost your mood, maintain bone density and help you live longer.
The antioxidants in red wine may even lower the risk of plaque, cavities and gum disease by making it more difficult for bad bacteria to stick to your teeth. So cheers to all that!
But red wine is also acidic, so it can wear down your tooth enamel — causing sensitivity and increasing your risk of tooth decay. The deep color and tannins in red wine can also trigger migraines and stain your teeth a shade of purple. While a single glass of wine may create a temporary stain that can be brushed or rinsed off, drinking more frequently may lead to a more long-term change in tooth color. Here are some tips for enjoying red wine and still maintaining a healthy smile.
-
Brush and floss your teeth before drinking to reduce the chance of wine sticking to plaque on your teeth.
-
Drink water between sips of wine. This can help you stay hydrated, clean your mouth and reduce the potential harmful effects to your teeth.
-
Munch on cheese and crunchy veggies as you sip. These foods can neutralize acids from wine, scrub away stains as you chew and restore calcium and phosphorus.
-
Visit your dentist for routine cleanings. You can also chat with your dentist about how to prevent stained teeth.
Ways to avoid harming your smile
-
Wait at least 30 minutes to brush after your last sip. Brushing too soon after acidic food or drinks can further erode your tooth enamel.
-
Be cautious of using “wine wipes” to get rid of stains on your teeth. Many of these wipes contain hydrogen peroxide, the same chemical used in teeth whitening that can potentially damage your tooth enamel with continuous use.
-
Skip the trick of rubbing a lime wedge on your lips and teeth to dissolve stains. Limes are very acidic and can increase the potential for tooth erosion and decay.
Red wine has 10 times more antioxidants than white wine and is less acidic, too. Enjoying a glass of red wine can provide health benefits — even if it’s in the form of a delicious and festive mulled wine (see our article for the recipe). Just be sure to take steps to protect your smile!
