Why Do My Teeth Hurt After Drinking Alcohol?
Tooth pain after drinking is often sensitivity: when enamel is worn or gums recede, acidic or sticky foods and drinks can reach the nerve inside the tooth (American Dental Association). Alcohol also dries the mouth (NIDCR), and dry mouth raises the risk of decay. Pain that keeps returning needs a dentist.
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We use your email only for this download.Worn enamel lets drinks reach the nerve
The American Dental Association explains that when dentin loses its covering of enamel or cementum, tiny tubes let heat, cold, and acidic or sticky foods reach the nerves inside the tooth. Gum recession can expose dentin too. Many mixed drinks are acidic or sugary, so a drink can set off pain in a tooth that is already exposed. We did not find an official source that measures how acidic specific alcoholic drinks are.
Alcohol dries the mouth
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research lists alcohol among things that dry out the mouth. It says dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay, because saliva carries minerals that keep teeth strong. Decay and cavities are another cause of pain.
Other causes
The ADA also lists decay, a fractured tooth, worn fillings and gum disease. A tooth that hurts for no clear reason, hurts at night, or comes with swelling or fever is not just a drink problem.
What to do
- Sip water between drinks to ease dry mouth.
- Keep up daily brushing and cleaning, which the ADA calls the key to preventing sensitivity pain.
- See a dentist if the pain returns. Treatment depends on the cause.
This is general information, not dental advice.
People also ask
Why do my teeth hurt after drinking alcohol?
Often sensitivity from exposed dentin, where acidic or sticky drinks reach the tooth nerve. Dry mouth and decay can also hurt.
Does alcohol cause dry mouth?
The NIDCR lists alcohol among things that dry out the mouth and says dry mouth raises the risk of tooth decay.
When should I see a dentist about tooth pain?
If the pain keeps coming back, wakes you at night, or comes with swelling or fever. The ADA says sensitive teeth can be treated once the cause is found.
Sources
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