Did you know that according to the National Coffee Association, about 67% of American adults have had coffee in the past day? Whether you prefer a plain cup of joe, a steaming hot espresso, or an iced latte, this caffeinated drink can help you start the day or push through the afternoon slump.
However, it’s important to remember that if you don’t take the right precautions, it can also harm your teeth. With National Coffee Day on September 29th, now’s the perfect time to learn about its impact on your oral health. Continue reading to learn more about how to enjoy coffee while safeguarding your smile!
How Does Coffee Impact My Teeth?
Discoloration
To the naked eye, your teeth appear to have a completely smooth surface, but the truth is that they’re covered in microscopic pores. These tiny pits and ridges can absorb different chemicals and ingredients from the different foods you eat, including darkly pigmented particles like tannins. This naturally occurring compound is found in different plants, like coffee beans, and is responsible for their bitter flavor. They bind with proteins and other substances in your mouth to cling to and penetrate your enamel, leaving it a deeper shade. After frequent or prolonged exposure, your once pearly whites can take on a more yellow or brown hue.
Acid Damage
Staining isn’t the only effect coffee can have on your grin; it can also thin the protective outer layer of your teeth, leaving you more vulnerable to cavities, gum disease, and injuries. Typically, human mouths have a pH level between 6.2 and 7.6, which is just about neutral. Anything lower than 7 is considered acidic and can potentially damage your teeth. Unfortunately, coffee pH values often range from 4.85 to 5.1, which is acidic enough to erode your enamel.
How Can I Drink Coffee Safely?
One of the simplest ways to preserve your oral well-being is to minimize how much and how frequently you drink coffee. However, many people are unable or unwilling to give it up entirely, so your dentist has put together the following helpful tips that can help you protect your teeth:
- Don’t linger. Sipping it throughout the day increases your exposure to ingredients that stain, so try to enjoy it in one sitting (like during breakfast, for example).
- Use a straw. This can prevent it from touching your teeth.
- Eat raw fruits and veggies. They have a natural fiber that can gently scrub away surface stains when you chew.
- Use a whitening paste. If you’re worried about discoloration, switching to a whitening toothpaste might help.
- Drink more water. H2O has a neutral pH level, counterbalancing the acidity. It also rinses away tannins, so they’re less likely to stain.
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to preserve your smile so you can have your coffee and drink it, too!
About the Practice
At Beacon Dentistry of Weatherford, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists who work together to offer a full array of services conveniently under one roof. With decades of combined experience, they can help with everything from basic preventative care to more complex and cosmetic procedures. They utilize state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate, long-lasting treatments that are customized to meet your unique needs. If you’ve noticed that your coffee habit has left your teeth looking worse for wear, you can request an appointment on the website or call (817) 594-7302.