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Wine Down With These Tooth-Whitening Tips

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With the rise of the web conference as the new in-person meeting and stress at an all-time high, “wine down Wednesday” and other virtual work happy hour events have become popular around the country. But with the advent of these team-building parties comes a disappointing downside: wine teeth. What are wine teeth? It’s when your teeth become discolored or stained due to the color of your beverage. In the case of red wine, it’s that pinkish look your teeth take on after you’ve had a glass or two. It’s not a good look in person – or on web conference.

So, what can be done to eradicate this predicament? Believe it or not, there are a few things you can try to keep your smile as bright and white as possible while still enjoying your wine!

Brush First

It may seem counterintuitive to brush your teeth before (as opposed to after) consuming wine, but believe it or not, it works. That’s because when your teeth are clean, wine can’t deposit color that clings to plaque and bacteria already on the teeth. Working with a clean slate, so to speak, will leave your teeth feeling fresh and clean and looking their best

Switch It Up

If you want to keep your wits about you and keep your teeth dazzling, alternate sips of water between your sips of wine. The water will not only keep you hydrated and dilute some of the effects of the alcohol, but will also rinse your teeth off as you drink. A win-win!

Wait Your Turn

Once you are done with your glass of wine, resist the urge to run to the sink and start brushing. That’s because the acidity in wine will temporarily soften the tooth enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to permanent damage from your toothbrush. Once you’re done drinking, it’s best to rinse with just water and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing, to give the enamel a chance to re-harden.

Try Something New

Really worried about red wine? Try white wine or rose instead. These lighter varietals will deposit less color on your teeth, leaving your pearly whites pearly whiter than red wine might.

Ultimately, the point of these virtual happy hours is to relax and bond with your co-workers, so don’t let insecurity about your teeth get in the way of a good time. Just keep these tips in mind and you’ll keep that gleaming grin!