Are you a regular coffee fiend? Does that daily cup (or pot) of Joe fuel you up and provide you with the boost you need to conquer the day? You aren’t alone—the National Coffee Association estimates that over 54% of Americans ages 18 and older drink coffee every day. But with so many people consuming this deliciously caffeinated brew, it’s worth investigating the effect that the beverage has on the body; specifically, your oral health! Keep reading to learn more about how coffee affects your dental health and why you might want to reevaluate your habit.
What Coffee Does to Your Teeth
Despite the many benefits of drinking coffee, too much consumption is not good for your oral health. Even just one cup of coffee a day increases the risk of developing cavities, as one cup usually contains plenty of sugary additives and flavorings. Coffee can also contribute to halitosis (bad breath) because of its thick scent and propensity to increase oral bacteria in the mouth. This same bacterium is what can lead to tooth enamel erosion; and once your enamel is gone, it doesn’t grow back!
Coffee is also notorious for causing tooth discoloration. Coffee contains tannins, which are types of polyphenols that break down in water. They’re present in other beverages that also cause staining like red wine and tea. This is called extrinsic staining, as it affects the outer layer of the tooth. Coffee also stains your teeth through the erosion of your enamel, as it exposes more of the underlying layer of yellow dentin—this is called intrinsic staining.
Tips for Minimizing Coffee-Related Staining
Despite the apparent threat that coffee poses to your oral health, you don’t have to entirely quit drinking it to protect your teeth (although this is certainly a surefire way to eliminate coffee-related discoloration). There are many precautionary measures you can also take and adjustments you can make, including:
- Drink your coffee quickly rather than sipping it throughout the day.
- Consider using a straw to minimize the amount of contact between the coffee and your teeth.
- Minimize the number of sugary additives in your coffee (cream, sugar, syrups, etc.).
- Drink plenty of water and rinse your mouth shortly after a cup of coffee. Brushing and flossing will also help.
- Wait 30 minutes after drinking coffee to brush your teeth to give your saliva the chance to neutralize the acids. Eating vegetables like carrots or celery can also help to reduce staining (and freshen your breath).
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Teeth whitening is also an option for coffee-related staining.
Enjoying coffee is a way of life for some, and although the drink has many benefits, they can come at a cost to your teeth! However, knowing how coffee affects your mouth and how you can prevent staining will go a long way towards preserving your oral health if you simply can’t resist that daily cup.
About the Practice
Smile More Dentistry proudly serves patients and families in the Tappan area. Helmed by Dr. Mariliza LaCap and Dr. Darren Tong, the exceptional team they’ve put together shares a passion for providing truly personalized dentistry! The practice is pleased to offer a wide range of dental services, including general, pediatric, restorative, cosmetic options and more. To schedule a visit, please reach out online or by phone: (845) 675-1512.