The holiday season is a time of celebration, which for many New Yorkers means plenty of parties, toasts, and festive drinks. While there’s nothing wrong with letting loose, there is one thing your dentist wants to warn you about: Prosecco teeth.
Prosecco, the crisp Italian sparkling wine, is a holiday season staple, but it also has a perfect blend of qualities that can damage teeth. As we enter our end-of-the-year festivities, it’s important to know how to protect your teeth from Prosecco and still celebrate the holidays. This quick guide from Babylon Dental Care can help you do exactly that.
What Is Prosecco Teeth (Prosecco Smile)?
Prosecco teeth, also called Prosecco smile, refers to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity caused by frequent exposure to sparkling wine. The term was first coined by London dentist, Dr. Mervyn Druian, in 2017.
So, how is prosecco bad for your teeth?
Sparkling wines, such as Prosecco, contain three elements that can damage enamel over time: acid, sugar, and alcohol. Here’s a breakdown:
- Acidic Content: Acidic drinks and enamel erosion go hand in hand. Both the carbonation and the grapes used to make Prosecco contribute to a high acid content that can wear away the protective layers of your teeth.
- Sugar Content: The sugar in Prosecco feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth that create enamel-eroding acids, leading to tooth decay.
- Alcohol Content: Alcohol dries the mouth, reducing saliva production and allowing acid and sugar to linger longer on your teeth.
All of these smile-harming factors work in unison to weaken and wear away tooth enamel. That enamel erosion eventually causes tooth sensitivity and leaves you vulnerable to decay.
How Prosecco Damages Enamel and Affects Your Teeth
Even though the drink feels light and refreshing, the acidity levels Prosecco contains pose a significant risk to your tooth enamel. The typical pH level of Prosecco ranges from 3 to 4. Enamel erosion begins at a pH level below 5.5. That means this festive drink sits comfortably in the danger zone.
Here’s how the connection between sparkling wine and teeth damage works:
- Enamel Softens: Every sip of Prosecco coats your teeth in acid. The acid slowly breaks down the minerals that keep enamel strong.
- Sugar Feeds Bacteria: The bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar in Prosecco and convert it into even more acid.
- Saliva Decreases: Alcohol slows saliva production. Saliva helps neutralize acid and wash away sugars. Without it, the sugar and acid continue to build up.
- Mineral Loss Accelerates: The acid, sugar, and alcohol create a perfect storm for enamel erosion. Eventually, the smile dulls, teeth become more sensitive, and Prosecco tooth decay begins.
Early Signs and Symptoms of Prosecco Teeth
If you enjoy Prosecco or other sparkling wines, be aware of the early signs of enamel erosion. Catching the problem early can help your dentist take preventive steps before permanent damage occurs. Signs and symptoms of the enamel erosion caused by Prosecco include:
- Increased Tooth Sensitivity: Enamel provides a protective layer on your teeth. When it wears away, they become more sensitive to hot and cold.
- Dull or Chalky Appearance: The outermost layer of enamel has a glossy appearance. Deeper layers become less shiny and rougher looking.
- Yellowish Tint: The dentin layer beneath your enamel has a yellow appearance. Prosecco can eventually cause teeth damage, making dentin more visible.
- Tiny Chips or Cracks: Weakened enamel can make teeth more prone to breakage. Small chips or cracks may occur without any significant trauma to your teeth.
How to Prevent and Protect Against Prosecco Smile
You don’t need to forgo Prosecco altogether to protect your smile this holiday season. However, you should exercise significant caution if you want to avoid sparkling wine enamel erosion. Here are some tips for how to prevent Prosecco teeth:
- Limit Exposure Time: Sip your drink in shorter sessions rather than slowly over hours. Constant exposure keeps acid in direct contact with your teeth longer.
- Avoid Swishing or Holding the Drink: Swirling Prosecco in your mouth increases acid contact. Take small sips and swallow promptly.
- Use a Straw: Straws reduce the Prosecco’s contact with your teeth. Use one whenever possible.
- Rinse Afterward: Water neutralizes acids and washes away sugars. After finishing your drink, quickly rinse your mouth out.
- Wait Before Brushing: Brushing immediately after something acidic can actually worsen enamel erosion. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
- See Your Dentist Regularly: Professional cleanings and fluoride treatments can help reverse early erosion and catch dental problems before they worsen. Visit your dentist every six months.
Contact Babylon Dental Care Today
With the help of Babylon Dental Care, you can still enjoy the holiday season while maintaining your beautiful smile. Contact us online or call (631) 983-6665 today to schedule your appointment.