While Christmas feasts and festive drinks bring joy to the season, it’s important not to forget your dental hygiene amidst all the indulgence. Between the rich meals, drinks, and endless rounds of holiday treats, many of us might be guilty of overlooking how certain festive favorites can impact our teeth.
Unfortunately, one of the most popular holiday drinks is not as friendly to your teeth as you might think. Prosecco, a go-to bubbly for celebrations, has been flagged by dentists as potentially harmful to your enamel.
Dr. Nyree Whitley, Chief Clinical Officer for mydentist, explained that Prosecco’s acidity can lead to enamel erosion, which can result in discolored teeth. She explained, “While Prosecco is a festive favorite, the high acidity can damage tooth enamel and contribute to discoloration over time.”
You may have noticed a tingling sensation on your teeth after sipping on a glass of Buck’s Fizz, a classic Prosecco-based cocktail. This sensation is likely the acid from the drink beginning to erode the protective enamel of your teeth.
To protect your smile while still enjoying your bubbly, Dr. Whitley offers some advice. She recommends either limiting your intake of Prosecco or using a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. It’s also crucial to resist the temptation to brush your teeth immediately after drinking Prosecco, as the acid softens enamel, and brushing too soon can spread it around, potentially doing more harm than good. Instead, Dr. Whitley advises waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
While most of the Prosecco may be gone now that the festivities have ended, there’s likely still some leftover chocolate Yule log, turkey, and trimmings waiting to be devoured. Keep in mind that many of these leftovers, especially those with high acidity, can also contribute to enamel erosion.
As you start the new year, remember to be mindful of what you’re eating and drinking to protect your enamel and avoid starting the year with a less-than-bright smile.
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