Drinking and driving do not mix, and consuming too much alcohol can damage your liver. As if these were not bad enough, there is now further research to support the risks associated with hitting the bottle too often. Drinking alcoholic beverages increases disease-causing mouth bacteria, DuPont.
The Study
Scientists at NYU School of Medicine found that men and women who have one or more alcoholic drinks every day disrupt the balance of oral microbes, which can lead to periodontal infection, cancer or cardiovascular disease. In particular, several inflammatory bacteria increased in number while beneficial bacteria disappeared among heavy drinkers.
The researchers reviewed mouthwash samples and alcohol consumption data from 1,044 adults, ages 55 to 87, which were part of two ongoing cancer studies. Analyzing participants’ oral bacteria, they compared the microbe composition among 270 nondrinkers, 614 moderate drinkers and 160 heavy drinkers. No distinction was made between those that drank wine, beer or liquor.
The Findings
The study did not determine whether or not better oral hygiene could help drinkers maintain a healthy balance of oral bacteria. Nor did the research show that blocking or promoting any particular changes in the microbiome could lead to healthy bacteria levels like those found in people who do not drink alcoholic beverages.
And while the researchers cannot point to a method of restoring a healthy blend of oral bacteria, changing the bacteria that live in the mouth definitely has a role to play in disease prevention.
The Take Away
With the conclusions of the study and the other known risks associated with excessive consumption of alcohol, a dentist in DuPont recommends reducing or eliminating alcoholic drinks. In particular, gum disease, tooth decay and mouth sores are more likely among heavy drinkers. Also, alcohol abuse is the second most common risk factor for oral cancer.
Drinking alcohol can also damage your teeth in several ways:
- Chromogens give alcohol its color, and they can attach to tooth enamel that has already been weakened by the acid in alcohol, thereby staining teeth
- Drinks high in alcohol reduce saliva production, which keeps your mouth moist and rinses away plaque and bacteria from your teeth
- Higher plaque levels on teeth increases the likelihood of tooth loss among heavy drinker
Your dentist in DuPont can help keep you mouth healthy whether you consume alcohol or not. Call today to schedule an appointment.
Say Hello to Dupont Family Dentistry
At Dupont Family Dentistry, our team works hard to provide all of the services our patients need to have a healthy mouth and a healthy body. If you are concerned about what alcohol could be doing to your teeth, make an appointment todaywith your dentist in DuPont.