White wine could result in dental erosion

The findings of the study reported in the journal Nutrition Research are expected to counter the beliefs of all those who think that red wine causes more harm.

The study suggests that white wines, such as chardonnay and pinot grigio, are more likely to cause damage to the protective layer of the teeth called tooth enamel than red wine like rioja and merlot.

Lab experiment finds white wine lowers calcium/mineral levels
A team from Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany conducted a lab experiment by examining 8 red and white wines from Germany, France, Italy and Spain, and analyzed their effects on adult teeth removed from men and women aged between 40 to 65.

The teeth were soaked in both the wines for a duration of 24 hours. After a day, the researchers noted a significant loss of minerals including calcium and phosphorus found in the enamel surface to the depths of up to 60 micrometers.

The findings also cautioned that excessive brushing immediately after alcohol consumption should be avoided as it could further harm the teeth. At least 30 minutes’ gap should be given before brushing teeth as it will help neutralize the acidic effect of the alcohol.

The researchers concluded that frequent consumption of white wine could lead to severe dental erosion.

"The ability of acidic foods and drinks to erode tooth enamel is well understood, and white wine is recognised as being more erosive than red,” said Prof Damien Walmsley, of the British Dental Association, London.

Cheese equalizes the acidic effect
The researchers noted that eating cheese alongside sipping wine could help counter the acidic effect since cheese is rich in calcium.

"The tradition of enjoying different cheeses for dessert, or in combination with drinking wine, might have a beneficial effect on preventing dental erosion since cheeses contain calcium in a high concentration," they said.