How to Avoid Red Wine Stains on Teeth
How to Avoid Red Wine Stains on Teeth
For many of us, a glass of red wine is the ideal accompaniment to a delicious dinner or a relaxing tipple to enjoy with friends or family. What’s more, the benefits of red wine go beyond its ability to relax us, with studies showing that a small amount of red wine can have health benefits including lowering the risk of heart disease and high cholesterol.
Unfortunately, the benefits of red wine don’t extend to our teeth, with its tendency to stain and discolour teeth presenting a common dental problem for red wine lovers. So, is it possible to unwind with your favourite red without putting your teeth at risk? We’ve got some top tips to help you enjoy your glass of red while keeping your teeth white.
Brush your teeth before drinking red wine, not after
It might surprise you to learn that it’s better to brush your teeth before you consume red wine. As the tannins in wine that cause discolouration latch onto the plaque on your teeth, brushing before you drink can help to get rid of any lingering plaque.
Brushing immediately after drinking red wine is best avoided. This is due to the fact that wine is acidic, which can leave your teeth feeling more sensitive. Brushing straight after consuming an acidic beverage can damage the enamel on your teeth, so aim to brush your teeth before red wine, not after.
Eat while you drink
Did you know that getting stuck into some nibbles with your red wine can actually help prevent ‘red wine teeth’?
In fact, the cheese that goes so well with your glass of red is a valuable source of calcium, which strengthens teeth and provides a protective barrier against the acids and tannins found in red wine. A perfect combination that’s great for your teeth!
Rinse with water
Rinsing your mouth out with water after drinking red wine can help to prevent ‘red wine teeth’. Simply swill some still water around your mouth to wash away any build-up that may have been left on your teeth.
That quick mouth swish will minimise the risk of unwelcome red wine stains, so remember to have a rinse after your red.
Opt for white
If you’re not set on red, you might want to choose a glass of white wine to reduce the chance of teeth staining. As the tannins in wine which are responsible for staining the teeth are found in the skins of grapes, white wine is preferable - unlike red wine, the skins are removed during the production process.
While white wine still contains some tannins, it will generally have less than the average red wine, so may be a better option for your teeth. However, as all wine is acidic, white wine can still have a damaging effect on your teeth, so is best consumed in moderation.If you’re concerned about teeth staining or discolouration, National Dental Care offers a range of safe, effective and convenient teeth whitening solutions, including in-clinic teeth whitening and take-home whitening kits. For more information, contact your local National Dental Care practice.
If you’re concerned about teeth staining or discolouration, National Dental Care offers a range of safe, effective and convenient teeth whitening solutions, including in-clinic teeth whitening and take-home whitening kits. For more information, contact your local National Dental Care practice.