New study reveals how drinking alcohol can lead to tooth decay or worse

The Oral Health Foundation wants to highlight the dangers drinking alcohol can have on oral health. Researchers have discovered that the balance of bacteria in the mouth can be changed by consuming just one alcoholic drink a day, and that alcohol consumption reduces the bacterium lactobacillales associated with tooth decay, and slows pathogen growth which contributes towards good gum health.

Saliva samples from more than 1,000 adults were tested and revealed that wine drinkers produce more bacteria responsible for gum disease than non-drinkers, and beer drinkers produce an increase in bacteria linked to decay. The results suggest that alcohol consumption could contribute to diseases such as gum disease, tooth decay, digestive tract cancers and head and neck cancer.

Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter says: “There are hundreds of different types of bacteria in the mouth and they all play a highly significant role in a person’s wellbeing. These bacteria are finely balanced and important for maintaining everything from the immune system and how the body deals with pollution in the environment, to protecting the teeth and gums and aiding with digestion after eating and drinking. The bacterial imbalance from drinking alcohol can cause serious problems in the mouth, such as gum disease, as well as increase the risk of head and neck cancer and heart disease.”

Dr Carter went on to say: “A number of high profile studies have previously pointed to the dangers around drinking alcohol to excess but this research offers an additional cause for concern. It is therefore important to be aware of the effects that even moderate alcohol consumption can have on oral and overall health, if drinking is sustained over a prolonged period of time. The best way for somebody to protect themselves from alcohol-related disease is to drink moderately, both in volume and frequency. It is also especially important that before bed, teeth are brushed correctly after drinking alcohol. Don’t allow the bad bacteria to build up overnight. By giving the mouth a good clean last thing at night, bacteria in the saliva can be neutralised and help prevent any unwanted oral health or general health problems.”