Written By: Dr Anitha Anchan | Updated : June 20, 2015 10:24 AM IST
My back teeth start to become very sensitive whenever I drink wine. I was wondering whether alcohol does that to my teeth?
Dentine is the bone-like mineralized tissue of a tooth that is usually covered and protected by the enamel in the crown and by cementum in the root. It is made up of many tiny channels called dentinal tubules, which help transmit the sensation of pain and touch to the pulp. Teeth sensitivity is usually caused due to exposed dentine. Various factors like regular wear and tear of the tooth, improper brushing, etc. can cause the outer enamel to erode and expose the dentine. Alcohol is one such factor too. Alcohol is very acidic and dehydrating. This causes dissolution of tooth enamel leading to exposed dentin. Alcohol contains sugar too. Cavity causing species of bacteria convert the sugar into acids, which demineralise and destruct the enamel of the tooth leading to sensitivity.
Brushing soon after drinking alcohol can increase the risk of tooth abrasion. Wait at least 30 minutes to brush after you consume alcohol so that the saliva secreted in the mouth can neutralise the acids. You can use a neutralising mouthwash too.
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