Straw Power: The Benefits of Using A Straw


added on: October 7, 2016

strawOur dental office in Tuscaloosa knows there are many choices when it comes to choosing beverages. There are display cases of drink options at the local convenience and grocery stores – not to mention all of the different drinks available at your nearest drive-thru or coffee shop. Beverages on the go often come with straw, but how often do you think of taking a swig through a straw at home or at work?

It’s All In The Straw

We’re here to tell you that the oral and overall health benefits that straws have might make you reach for one all the time. Our Tuscaloosa dental office is pleased to share these benefits with you as another way you can help protect your teeth from disease and decay.

Benefit #1 – Avoid The Stain Game

Using a straw when enjoying your favorite beverage is a good way to help protect teeth against common staining often associated with long-term exposure to dark-colored foods and drinks like coffee and tea. By using a straw, you can help avoid constant and direct contact with your teeth.

Benefit #2 – Less Exposure = A Healthier Smile

Allowing beverages to come in contact with your teeth can not only allow discoloration, but can also have a direct effect on your oral health. The more of the liquid that comes in contact with your teeth, the more exposure they have to sugar, and we all know that sugar isn’t good for teeth. Straws help direct beverages away from your teeth, and even though some contact does occur, it’s minimized when you’re slurping through a straw. This means less bacteria and sugar actually stick to your smile, reducing the chance of decay.

Benefit #3 – Hygiene Happiness

Bacteria and germs are always lurking in and around your home and restaurants on cups and glasses. And when you put those cups to your mouth to sip, there’s a chance the bacteria can inhibit your oral health. Avoid this by using a straw.

Your dentist in Tuscaloosa always wants you and your teeth to be as healthy as possible. Consider using a straw when enjoying your favorite beverages, both hot and cold. We think you’ll enjoy seeing these benefits and so much more!

Accepting new patients from Tuscaloosa, Northport, Cottondale.

About The Author
Dr. Paul Diaz

Dr. Paul Diaz is a Fellow and member of the American Society for Dental Aesthetics and the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). The AGD honored him with a Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition (LLSR) award, which recognizes members committed to staying up-to-date with the latest in dentistry and giving back to their community. Dr. Diaz has served or is currently serving the University of Alabama School of Dentistry, Alabama Dental Association, Alabama Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Society for Dental Aesthetics.

Posted In: Prevention