St. Patrick’s Day is a time of celebration. Whether you’re Irish or not, the fun and festivities associated with this annual event cause many people from around the world to break out their green attire, enjoy colorful spirits, and embrace the luck of the Irish. Unfortunately, having too much fun can often lead to potential problems, especially when it concerns your oral health. To minimize your risk of a dental emergency while partying with friends, here are three tips to keep in mind.
Limit Your Alcohol Consumption
Green beer and other flavorful alcohol may be the desirable drinks of choice on St. Patrick’s Day, but the reality is that they can contain a lot of sugars and acids – both of which are prime targets for bacteria inside your mouth.
When consumed in large quantities, these beverages can make it easy for harmful particles to attach and begin to break down tooth enamel. What you are left with is tooth decay and ultimately, cavities.
Even worse is the food coloring found in these drinks, which can stain your pearly whites, creating a less-than-desirable appearance.
When out with friends make sure to limit how much alcohol you’re drinking so that you don’t develop a cavity that requires restorative care.
Stay Hydrated
St. Patrick’s Day may be known for casting one’s cares away and indulging in plenty of alcoholic beverages, but if you’re not careful, you might become dehydrated. This is not only dangerous to your mouth but also to your body.
When dry mouth occurs, it slows the production of saliva – a valuable and necessary component to help ensure better oral health. Saliva that flows freely neutralizes acids commonly found in alcohol. Without these glands working properly, your mouth begins to serve as a haven for unhealthy bacteria, which will grow and spread to cause cavities and gum disease.
By drinking plenty of water throughout the day and night, you allow your mouth to remain moist while also keeping your body fully hydrated so that you can have more fun.
Beware of Stains
If green beer isn’t what you plan to consume on St. Patrick’s Day, you may prefer a fuller, darker spirit like a stout. Popular among the Irish, this flavorful, dense beverage has a strong taste and the possibility of stains – an unfortunate reality for your teeth.
Much like food coloring can dye your grin, so can dark-colored drinks like stouts. If you plan to make this your drink of choice while out with your friends, make sure to keep a small toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash in your purse or bag so that you can clean your smile after completing your celebratory beverage.
No matter how you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year, make sure to keep your smile in mind so that you don’t end up spending the day with your emergency dentist instead of your friends.
About the Author
Dr. Rodney L. Allen attended Stephen F. Austin State University before earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery at Baylor College of Dentistry. He offers comprehensive services for the entire family, and his expert team provides the highest level of patient care possible. If you’re interested in learning how to take better care of your smile when holidays arrive, visit our website or call (720) 851-6784.