Make Sure Your Teeth Enjoy that Glass of Wine as Well!

At Hamlin Dental Group, we are happy to treat anyone that is looking for a gentle dentist with a conservative approach. That's why we've garnered a reputation as the dentist in Van Nuys and throughout the San Fernando Valley that can be trusted to provide impeccable general and cosmetic dentistry to patients of all ages.

Simply put, we care a great deal for every patient we treat, which is why we're always on the lookout for new information to share on how to keep smiles dazzlingly white and teeth healthy. Often, that means offering advice on how to care for teeth on a day-to-day basis, and what foods or drinks to avoid to ensure teeth stay strong.

We know some of our patients may hate to hear it, but as fun as wine may be to drink, if you're not careful, it can significantly wear away on the enamel of your teeth. In fact, sad as it may be to hear for the barflies among us, wine is not the only alcoholic beverage that can degrade one's teeth. Wine Spectator reports that the acidity of wine can lead to a "significant reduction in mean salivary pH after consumption of any form of alcohol". Beer and whiskey can even pose more of a risk than wine.

Of course, we're not telling our 21-and-over friends that they should never partake in their favorite beverages from time to time, only that they should pay attention to the effect on their teeth - and work to minimize it as much as possible. Drinking a glass of water or milk afterwards can reduce acidity and flush out the mouth. However, it is suggested to wait an hour before brushing, giving enamel a chance to harden, to make sure you aren't harming enamel when it is already weakened.

If you choose to have a drink or two, your friendly neighborhood dentist in Northridge reminds you to always make sure you're staying safe - and that goes for your teeth as well! And remember, when it's time for your regular dental check-up, you can do no better than Hamlin Dental Group!