Pearly Whites & Red Wines: Protecting Your Teeth This Holiday Season

Nothing pairs better with the holidays than great food, good company, and a glass (or two) of red wine. Sadly, the latter can also come with something much less festive—stubborn purple stains that cling to your enamel. If you want to enjoy your holiday favorites without dulling your smile, continue reading. You’ll find some tips to keep your teeth bright while you celebrate and learn how professional teeth whitening can help you start the new year with confidence.

Brush Before You Head Out

Brushing before you drink red wine may sound backward, but it works! Plaque attracts pigments from dark drinks. Removing it first gives wine fewer places to cling, reducing your chances of purple-tinted teeth.

Choose a Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste can help lift light surface stains throughout the season. And while it won’t replace professional whitening treatments, it can help keep your teeth bright between cleanings.

Sip Water Between Toasts

A quick sip of water helps wash away the acids and pigments in red wine. It’s one of the easiest ways to reduce stains, and it also keeps you hydrated—something your body will certainly thank you for.

Try White Wine Instead

If you want to enjoy the taste of wine while avoiding stains, just switch to white instead of red. It’s still acidic, but it won’t leave the deep pigments behind. If you prefer the taste of one over the other, alternating between white and red can also help limit discoloration.

Snack on Crunchy Foods

Snacks like apples, carrots, and celery can help scrub your teeth naturally. Their fibrous texture helps remove some of the wine’s residue and boosts saliva flow, which protects your enamel.

Schedule a Professional Whitening Treatment

Many patients schedule teeth whitening after the holidays to erase seasonal stains and start the new year with a renewed smile. If you want dramatic, fast results, professional treatments are the most effective option out there!

You don’t have to skip your favorite wine to protect your teeth. With these tips and support from your dentist, you can enjoy the holiday season without worrying about purple teeth. Ready for a brighter smile? Talk to your dentist today and prepare to let the good times roll uninhibited.

About the Practice

At Advanced Dental Care of Springfield, Dr. Victoria Driskill and Dr. John Neely are overjoyed to provide phenomenal dentistry no matter the season. From routine care to cosmetic treatments, their team is dedicated to helping every patient enjoy a healthier, brighter smile. Call (217) 546-3333 to schedule a teeth whitening consultation with us or visit our website to explore other services.