The Link Between Alcohol and Gum Disease

Did you know there is a link between alcohol and gum disease? If you enjoy having a glass of wine with dinner now and then, that is fine, but if you’re prone to daily consumption involving beer, wine, or hard liquor, you’ll want to listen carefully. Because it is known to increase your risk of periodontal disease (gum disease), you’ll need to know how to prevent it, so your oral health doesn’t decline in the future. Hear from a local dentist who shares more insight on the connective link and how you can lower your risk for gum disease and maintain a healthier smile.

The Connective Link Between Alcohol and Gum Disease

When looking at a person’s oral microbiome, researchers from the NYU Langone Health in New York City discovered those who drink excessively or even regularly often have a higher number of bad bacteria. As a result, this can cause an imbalance and put an individual at risk for cavities, gum disease, and potential cancers.

Senior researcher Jiyoung Ahn also stated that it is believed the more alcohol a person consumes, the greater it will change a person’s bacterial makeup inside their mouth. Women who have more than one drink or men who drink more than two alcoholic beverages each day are at the highest risk.

Ways to Combat Gum Disease

Since the idea of periodontal disease does not sound appealing, it’s important that you take proper care of your gum health no matter if you drink or not. You can do this by:

• Continuing to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing at least once a day to remove any bad bacteria
• Rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash, particularly one that focuses on curbing gum disease
• Maintaining regular six-month dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist
• Pursuing gum disease treatment in Sarasota early on if you discover your gums are sensitive, bleeding, and red
• Limit your consumption of alcohol and get help if you are having trouble reducing the amount you drink on a daily basis

More research must be done to better understand the connective link. But it’s important to realize that minimizing your alcohol consumption will do nothing but benefit your oral health and minimize your risk for gum disease.

About the Author
Dr. Warren Hoffman is a dentist in North Sarasota who attended dental school in Baltimore, Maryland, and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He then went on to complete an externship during his senior year, providing dental services to stationed members of the United States Coast Guard in Honolulu, Hawaii. He and his team at Parkway Ridge Dental want you to enjoy better oral health, which is why he offers periodontal therapy to individuals with mild, moderate, or severe gum disease. By addressing symptoms early on, you can reverse them and start living a healthier life. Contact us at (941) 358-8830 to find out what you can do to combat potential gum disease.