How to Enjoy St. Paddy’s Day Without Harming Your Smile

Are you looking forward to St. Patrick’s Day? Now that March is here, the special holiday will be here before you know it. There is no better excuse to gather with your friends and family to enjoy a good time over a few drinks. However, there is no avoiding the fact that it may not be the best day of the year for your smile. Fortunately, steps can be taken so that you can enjoy the day while you still prevent dental emergencies from happening to you. Continue reading to learn what they are.

Cut Out the Green Beer

When you head to the bar or pub in the United States, it is difficult to avoid all of the cheap beer around you that has been dyed green. While this may seem like a fun way to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day, something that isn’t fun is lingering discoloration of your teeth. While this isn’t permanent, you can’t expect your pearly whites to be white for the rest of the day.

Limit the Stouts

A very popular beverage on St. Patrick’s Day is Stout. They contain roasted malts and barley in order to add the full-bodied flavor of the beverage. It makes the beverage delicious, but its dark color can also rub off on your teeth. When you have a stout occasionally, it won’t generally cause too much damage, but when you are drinking them regularly, you could be looking at some stains in the mirror pretty soon.

Check Your Beer’s Acidity

When compared to water, beer is quite acidic. Generally, it is found at about a 4 on the pH scale. This acid is terrible for your teeth because it wears away your protective enamel, making it more likely that you endure tooth decay and other oral health issues. If you continue to sip on beer for the entire duration of the night, your teeth could be in trouble. The best way to keep your teeth safe is by brushing them thoroughly before bed.

Drink Water

A beer or two on St. Paddy’s day usually doesn’t hurt, but it is important that you are staying hydrated. Dry mouth is a common negative side effect of consuming alcohol. When you are drinking plenty of water, you can prevent this from occurring, or at least lessen the effects.

On St. Paddy’s Day, don’t put your smile at risk! By using the tips listed above, you will have a fun night ahead of you free from dental emergencies.

About the Author

Dr. Hiren H. Shah is an experienced dentist who has been practicing for over a decade now. He earned his dental doctorate from New York University. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Association. For more ways to keep your smile healthy or to schedule an appointment at his office in Edison, NJ, visit his website or call (908) 834-8448.