Is Prosecco Bad for Your Teeth?
Prosecco is widely known across the nation by its fresh flavor, satisfying carbonation, and favorable price tag; however, very few are aware of the dangers Prosecco may cause to your teeth and oral health.The emergence of Prosecco in the United States caused a huge movement for those that wanted a light, bubbly beverage that wasn’t quite as serious as champagne. Who hasn’t heard of that irresistible beverage that’s sweeping women away by the thousands? In 2007, Prosecco sales were recorded to be as much as 100,000 cases imported from one vineyard in northern Italy.
With a drink so gratifying, how can it be so bad?
Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine produced from Glera (or Prosecco) grapes in the northern region of Italy. It’s a light, fizzy, and refreshing beverage that may offer hints of fruitiness and nuttiness. Unfortunately, this bubbly drink also contains high amounts of sugar, an acidic, low pH level, mixed with carbonation and alcohol, and can be responsible for destroying your teeth. Each glass consumed can contain as much as one gram of sugar; added with the carbonation and the alcohol, the beverage could be dissolving the protective outer layer of your teeth called enamel. This blended conglomerate is deemed a dentist’s nightmare and opens the door for increased levels of tooth erosion and decay.
So, what can you do to prevent and combat tooth decay from Prosecco?
The key to preventing tooth decay is consuming this beverage in moderation and maintaining great oral hygiene habits. Having a couple glasses of Prosecco at any one time may not do too much damage; however, intaking glasses in excess can be extremely detrimental. Dentists recommend:
- Having a glass in moderation! One or two at dinner is great!
- Pairing your glass of Prosecco with food. Cheese and crackers, anyone?
- Taking a break between glasses. This will help you keep track of how many glasses you’re consuming!
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day & Floss daily! Keep up the good work!
- Wait to brush at least an hour after consumption. This will give your teeth some time to flush out the acid left on your teeth. You don’t want to brush away the enamel!
- Sip on a glass of water while drinking. Not only will this help with hydration, you’ll also wash away some of the sugar and acid left on your teeth.
Dentists everywhere understand that it’s necessary to indulge, but not at the expense of that radiant smile! For more information, visit Wells Family Dentistry or contact them to request an appointment.