In 1987, National Alcohol Awareness Month was created and continues to this day. Founded by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), this annual observance is dedicated to educating the public about the health risks of alcohol dependence. Greater than 90,000 individuals lives are taken each year as a result of alcohol abuse and dependence. In addition, about 29 people die in vehicle accidents due to an alcohol-impaired driver, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Other campaigns that highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse include D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) and Know Your Limits.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a 2020 report indicated that approximately 19.3 million people 18 years of age or older had a substance use disorder in the past year. SAMHSA also reported that excessive alcohol use can increase a person’s chance of experiencing a stroke, liver cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, cancer, and other life-threatening health conditions. The CDC categorizes moderate alcohol use in women as one drink a day for women and no more than two drinks a day for men. Whereas heavy drinking is considered to be greater than eight drinks a week for women, and 15 or more for men.
Misusing alcohol can play a significant role in diminishing the well-being and health of individuals in the long-term. Not to mention, alcohol can also negatively impact your teeth, such as by increasing the likelihood of gum disease, cavities, oral sores, and oral cancer. Individuals who consume alcohol in excess have been reported to have greater amounts of dental plaque and are more likely to experience dry mouth, both of which increase the risk of developing tooth decay and permanent tooth loss. Alcohol even effects the appearance of your teeth as a result of staining.
This pandemic has impacted us all, but our community is indeed all stronger together. Our team at WDG always has your safety and health as our top priority, and we have implemented additional safety measures and equipment to help prevent the transmission of all infections, including COVID-19. Wellesley Dental Group has completely reopened since June 8th, 2020 for all dental procedures and cleanings! Thank you for entrusting your health and dental care to us at Wellesley Dental Group.
Feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment.
Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist, Dr. Bahar Houshman and Dr. Marisa Reason is happy to help with your TMJ and orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other oral surgery needs, Dr. Reisman would love to help, and our gum-specialist Dr. Singh can help with your gum-related concerns.
References:
https://nationaltoday.com/national-alcohol-awareness-month/
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/atod
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/what-does-alcohol-do-to-your-teeth