The parades, the green everything, the corned beef, the late nights—St. Patrick’s Day is a great time. But there’s a reason dental offices across the country see a spike in emergency patients the day after. From chipped teeth and lost restorations to cavities and bleeding gums, oral health issues are surprisingly common. If you want to celebrate without ending up in the dental chair the next morning, keep reading.
Why the Day After Is So Busy
The combination of alcohol, hard and sticky foods, and late-night snacking creates a perfect storm for dental disasters. Alcohol reduces inhibitions and pain sensitivity, which means many people might not realize they’ve chipped a tooth or dislodged a crown until the next morning. Add some distracted ice-crunching, hard pretzels, and wobbly walking during a busy parade, and you’ll start to deduce the outcome.
Drink Responsibly and Hydrate
Green beer is a St. Patrick’s Day staple, but alcohol, especially in large amounts, can seriously dry out your mouth. Saliva is a natural defense against bacteria and acid, so when it disappears, your teeth become more vulnerable. Dark beers and acidic mixers are also notorious enamel eroders.
If you’re drinking, swish water throughout the night to keep your mouth hydrated and rinse away acid, sugar, and dye.
Watch What You Eat
Party spreads full of oral health hazards can sneak up on you if you’re not paying attention. Be watchful for:
- Hard Pretzels and Crusty Bread: These are among the most common culprits for chipping teeth. Bite carefully and avoid using your teeth to tear off pieces.
- Sticky Candies and Caramel: Green-colored taffy and caramels are delicious. However, sticky foods can pull at crowns, bridges, and fillings, and can sometimes even dislodge them.
- Ice: Chewing on chunky ice is one of the best ways to crack a tooth. If it’s in your drink, just let it melt.
- Corned Beef and Tough Meats: Tough, chewy meats put stress on your jaw and your teeth. Take smaller bites and chew slowly.
Don’t Skip the Basics
No matter how tempting it is, don’t skip brushing. It’s even more important after a night of drinking and snacking. Before you go to sleep, drink some water and brush gently to prevent acid from sitting on your smile. Your morning self will thank you.
If you do wake up with a chipped tooth, a lost filling, or mouth pain—don’t wait it out. Call your dentist first thing in the morning. They’ll likely be able to see you quickly, find the source of your discomfort, and keep your smile healthy. And they won’t even pinch you!
About the Author
Dr. Lance Anderson earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Louisville and has been helping Lovell smile brighter ever since. He’s an active member of multiple professional organizations, like the Wyoming Dental Association. If you want to enjoy all life’s celebrations—green drinks and all, he can help you keep your oral health in top shape. Call (307) 548-7654 to schedule an appointment at Lovell Dental or visit our website to learn more.