The holidays are a special time for celebration and for many that means enjoying a glass (or two) of crisp red wine. But while the rich flavors are hard to resist, the potential for tooth stains might make you hesitant to indulge. If that sounds like you, there’s no need to worry! Read on to learn how red wine stains teeth and find some strategies to keep your smile sparkling as you enjoy this festive beverage!
How Does Red Wine Stain Teeth?
Red wine is notorious for staining teeth because it contains three chemicals that can put a damper on your holiday spirit:
- Chromogens are pigments that stick to enamel and create stains.
- Tannins are compounds that help chromogens bind to teeth.
- Acid weakens enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to discoloration.
These chemicals work together to leave behind the tell-tale purple stains that dull your smile in every holiday selfie. While it can be frustrating, there are ways to disrupt this process and keep your grin looking gorgeous!
How to Prevent Tooth Stains from Red Wine
Now that you know how wine affects your pearly whites, you can use these strategies to reduce its impact:
Brush Before You Sip
Brushing your teeth 30 minutes before drinking red wine is far more effective than brushing after. Clean teeth are less likely to hold onto wine pigments, while brushing immediately after drinking can actually damage your enamel due to wine’s acidity!
Pair with Food
Enjoying red wine with certain foods can actually reduce staining! For example, cheese creates a protective coating on your teeth, while crunchy foods like raw veggies can help scrub away pigments. So, a holiday charcuterie board isn’t just delicious—it’s tooth-friendly too!
Keep Water Handy
Alternating sips of red wine with water can wash away pigments before they stick to your teeth. Swish the water around your mouth to keep stains at bay while staying hydrated.
Use a Straw
It may seem too simple to be true, but drinking red wine through a straw reduces contact with your teeth, preventing stains from setting in!
Don’t Skip Out on Oral Care
After enjoying all the festivities, be sure to stick to your normal brushing and flossing routine. If you want to be thorough, consider using a whitening toothpaste marked with the ADA seal of approval. This will help cleanse your teeth without being too rough on your enamel.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your holiday red wine without worrying about tooth stains! Whether you’re at a party or cozying up at home, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your teeth bright. And if all else fails, you can always rely on your dentist to help set your smile right again!
About the Author
Dr. Tony Lee is an experienced dental expert with a doctorate from the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry. If you need to brighten your smile after the holidays, he offers highly effective cosmetic solutions that will help with even the toughest tooth stains! Call (904) 808-8779 to schedule an emergency appointment at Total Dental Care or visit our website to learn more.