Recognizing The Benefits of Dental Implants

If you drink alcohol excessively, you may be sacrificing your oral health. People who regularly consume large amounts of alcoholic beverages may be more prone to dental problems. If you are a heavy drinker, here are two oral health issues that you may encounter:

Gum Disease

One study conducted by the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine has uncovered a direct link between the amount of alcohol that you consume and the risk of gum disease. Over 6,000 adults who were between the ages of 20 and 90 were randomly selected. The subjects were grouped based on the amount of alcohol that they consumed per week. Study participants who drank five drinks weekly had a 10 percent risk of gum disease. Those who consumed 10 drinks per week had a 30 percent chance of gum disease. Likewise, people who had 20 drinks per week had a 40 percent chance of developing gum disease. 

In addition, a New York study that reviewed gum tissue bleeding, microorganisms beneath the gums, clinical attachment loss and bone loss in people who reported regular consumption of alcohol indicated that alcohol intake is associated with a moderate increase in periodontal disease.

Researchers believe that the reason for the increase in periodontal disease among drinkers is due to a decreased ability to fight infection, less new bone formation, a less effective clotting mechanism and nutrient deficiencies.

Oral Cancer

Alcohol degrades into acetaldehyde, a harmful substance that causes exposed tissues to become inflamed. When you drink, your mouth is exposed to small amounts of this detrimental substance. If inflammation in your mouth progresses, cancer may develop.

If you drink and smoke at the same time, your risk of cancer is even greater. In fact, the Oral Cancer Foundation says that the combination causes a 15-fold increase in your chance of developing oral cancer. Researchers believe that when you consume alcohol, it dehydrates the cells inside your mouth. Once dehydrated, the cells may be more easily permeated by carcinogens in the alcohol and tobacco.

If you consume large amounts of alcohol, you may be jeopardizing your oral health. You could be at greater risk of developing oral health problems, such as gum disease or oral cancer. A dentist can examine your mouth and screen for issues. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to have your teeth and gums assessed. If a problem is found, your dentist may be able to recommend a suitable treatment option.