How does alcohol affect the gums?

Answer 1

Aside from killing surface bacteria, the substance alcohol (thought of on its own-not in an alcoholic drink) can unfortunately be a major irritatant of the gums, tongue and oral tissues. If you have sensitive teeth or gum disease on any level, your dentist will recommend you to stay away from mouthwashes that contain alcohol. Alcohol causes dehydration of the mouth, so bacteria are not washed away by saliva, and plaque formation occurs faster, leading to tooth decay. Alcohol can also erode the enamel on the outside of your teeth, leading to decay. Alcoholic drinks often have a high sugar content as a result of residual sugar (left over from the fermentation process) and added sugar (flavouring), which can all lead to gum problems. Alcohol can numb nerves, so after having an alcoholic drink that is high in sugar with sensitive gums, you may not feel that they are very tender or sore until a few hours later, and they may even bleed as a result. Heavy and prolonged use of alcohol often results in neglect of oral hygiene as well as malnutrition, of which both can also relate to gum problems.

The prevention and solution is to limit your alcohol consumption (five units per week) to decrease periodontal gum related problems. Limit sugar in your diet to prevent bacterial overgrowth. Limiting your caffeine intake, for example by reducing the amount of tea and coffee in your diet is also recommended, as caffeine can dry the mouth. Alcohol and Caffeine are both diuretics and can cause your mouth to become dry, and a dry mouth is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Drink seven glasses of water per day to increase saliva to help clear bacteria and slow plaque production, and of course.. brush and floss your teeth!

Answer 2

alcohol hits your mouth and causes anthentic

Answer 3

Alcohol generally has no affect on the throat and mouth except to impart pleasure.

Excessive alcohol consumption is a leading cause of cancer of the mouth and throat.