If you are one of the millions of Americans who enjoy the occasional glass of red wine, you probably already know what “wine teeth” are. No, it’s not some euphemism for how much bite your wine has – it’s the very real and very embarrassing effect of red wine on your teeth. Wine teeth happens when the anthocyanins in the wine color your teeth a lovely shade of purple or red after drinking. Though this effect is only temporary, for many people it lasts long enough to be a bother – and to cause embarrassment. But did you know there are ways you can minimize the effects of wine teeth and keep that bright white smile no matter what varietal you choose?
Brush First
If you know you’re going to be drinking wine, brush your teeth 30 minutes to an hour before drinking. This will give those anthocyanins less to cling to when you finally do drink (plus it’s just good for your teeth).
Switch Your Sips
We always recommend alternating alcohol with water to minimize the coloring and acidic effect on the teeth. Just take a sip or two of water between your sips of wine, and the water will rinse away the wine as you drink!
Go Lightly
If your red wine is still too red for your teeth, try switching to a lighter varietal, such as a Rose or a white. These wines will deposit less color on your teeth, so nobody will know what you’ve been drinking the second you open your mouth!
Brush Last
When you are done drinking, you should definitely brush your teeth, but it’s important to wait at least 30 minutes after drinking before brushing your teeth. That’s because the acidity in your wine will soften your tooth enamel. When you brush your teeth while your enamel is still soft, your toothbrush can leave tiny scratches that are permanent! If you wait 30 minutes, you give the enamel time to re-harden so that your brush can no longer cause damage.
Cheers! Preventing wine teeth is really that easy, so sit back and enjoy a glass of your favorite and don’t worry about your smile!
For an appointment with Dr. Mazhari, please call (703) 212-9622.