Wining, Dining ... and Staining?
Winter 2009
Most people are aware of the teeth-staining effects of deeply colored foods such as berries and curries, and the "Dracula" effect that some people's teeth have after drinking red wine. However, what surprises many people is learning that white wine is also a teeth-staining culprit.
Results of a study at New York University School of Dentistry showed that drinking white wine could increase the potential for teeth to take on dark stains. The explanation is that the acids in wine, whether red or white, create rough spots and grooves in teeth, enabling stains from other beverages such as coffee or tea to penetrate deeper into the teeth. So, will brushing your teeth immediately after consuming either red or white wine counter any staining effects?
"No," most dental experts will answer.
The high acidity in wine renders your teeth sensitive to abrasion. Brush too soon after indulging in any kind of wine and you'll risk damaging the enamel. Instead, keep the toothbrush away for at least an hour, and rinse your mouth out with water or eat some cheese.
Eating cheese after a meal can actually help protect your teeth against cavities, too, as it speeds the neutralization of acid and remineralization of enamel. After a meal, the pH level in your mouth often drops and your mouth becomes more acidic a potentially damaging situation for teeth. Eating a piece of cheese neutralizes the acids and helps maintain a pH balance in your mouth that is safe for teeth. Eating cheese can also help to increase the amount of saliva in the mouth, which aids in rinsing other food particles away.
Counteracting the acidic effects of wine and foods with the neutralizing qualities of cheese adds up to a delicious, teethfriendly solution for wine aficionados and teetotalers alike.
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