For many people, a great morning starts with a fresh, hot cup of coffee. It gives you the energy you need to get going in the morning and make the most out of your day. Did you know that over half of the American adult population begins their day with coffee? This beverage has shown to have many health benefits, but there are some concerns as well.
This is especially the case when it comes to your dental health. Read on to learn from your dentist in Painesville about how coffee affects your oral health, discoloration, and what you can do to minimize these consequences.
What Effects Does Coffee Have on My Oral Health?
The only beverage that doesn’t contribute to bacterial growth in the mouth is water. When you drink coffee, especially if you are adding sugar, you will have additional bacteria in the mouth which will eat away at your enamel. This increases your risk of tooth decay, cavities, and other oral health problems. The acidic nature of the beverage also increases your risk of enamel erosion which can make your teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity and damage.
Why Does Coffee Cause Tooth Discoloration?
Some darker-colored beverages, like red wine, tea, and coffee, contain “tannins.” They are chemical compounds found in edible plants that belong to a larger group of compounds known as “polyphenols.” They are known for contributing to the color and flavor of different foods and beverages. However, when tannins build up on the enamel of the tooth, you are often left with discoloration that is difficult to remove.
How Can I Prevent Tooth Discoloration While Still Enjoying My Coffee?
To prevent staining from drinking coffee, the most obvious solution would be to reduce the amount of the beverage you consume. However, if you feel like you can’t go without your morning cup, you can take the following steps to lessen the effects:
- Use a straw: This limits the contact between the dark liquid and your teeth.
- Rinse: Swish some water around your mouth afterward to wash lingering coffee away.
- Drink quickly: Sipping on a cup of coffee for many hours only lengthens your teeth’s exposure and stain risk. Don’t burn your mouth in the process, however.
How Can I Correct Staining from Coffee?
If you have accumulated coffee stains on your teeth from long-term exposure that regular brushing doesn’t seem to reduce, you aren’t necessarily stuck with it. Ask your dentist about take-home whitening kits. They are safe and work much better than anything you can from a store. Best of all, they are customized to your smile. In just a matter of weeks, you can whiten your teeth by up to eight shades.
As satisfying as your cup of coffee may be in the morning, it is important to recognize the effects that it has on your teeth. The good news is you don’t need to give it up for good. Just take precautions when drinking it and talk to your dentist in Painesville about steps you can take to keep your teeth white and healthy.
About the Practice
At Painesville Dental Group, we offer affordable dental care with early and weekend hours to accommodate your entire family while making your comfort a priority. Our office is equipped with the most advanced dental technology so that we can identify and treat dental issues faster. If you are a coffee enthusiast, part of your efforts to keep your teeth looking good should be a biannual dental cleaning and exam, which you can schedule on our website or by calling (440) 354-2183. Also, be sure to ask about our take-home teeth-whitening kits.