In January, people around the world decide to practice ‘Dry January’ – that is, to abstain from drinking alcohol for the entire month. A study showed that after completing a month without alcohol, improvements in weight, blood pressure, and cancer-related proteins were seen.
But did you know that abstaining from alcohol also has a significant impact on your oral health care? Let’s have a closer look at some of the benefits of dry January for your teeth.
Protects from tooth enamel
We often talk about protecting your tooth enamel, and quite rightly so! The enamel on your teeth is among the hardest materials in your body. Acids present one of the biggest threats to your tooth enamel – over time, they can wear it away, exposing you to the risk of cavities and infection.
The consumption of alcoholic beverages dehydrates you and reduces your body’s ability to neutralise harmful acids, which can speed up plaque formation and lead to tooth decay. Acidic drinks like wine are especially notable culprits for this.
Less sugar intake
As we all know, alcoholic drinks are packed full of sugar. Drinks such as wine and Prosecco are especially bad. If you give up alcohol for a while, you can immediately reduce the amount of sugar in your diet, which is great for your teeth.
Reduce your risk of Cancer
Many people think smoking is the most significant risk factor for oral cancer, and they aren’t entirely wrong. However, alcohol can also play a significant role – it’s one of the biggest risks.
According to experts, excessive drinking can increase the risk of mouth cancer by up to four times the risk for non-drinkers. Although most people won’t be that high up on the scale, cutting back for a while is never a bad idea.
Keeps your smile healthy
A beautiful white smile is probably high up in the priority list for a lot of us. Unfortunately, alcoholic drinks can contribute to staining and discolouring our teeth. Tiny molecules called tannins are particularly harmful in this regard. Therefore, abstaining from drinking alcohol, as well as following a proper oral hygiene routine, can help to enhance the colour of your teeth and maintain them in good shape.
Our dentists in Pwllheli may be of assistance if you are concerned about staining. At Glandwr Dental Practice we provide teeth whitening services to help bring your smile back to life.
Even for a short time, we understand it can be hard to give things up. If you stick with it, however, you may begin to feel the benefits almost immediately! Whether you’re tee-totalled or not, your oral health is always our top priority.
