Some patients feel they can’t function without their daily cup of coffee. But some also wonder if it can harm their teeth. In this blog post, we discuss the effects of coffee on teeth.
Enamel Erosion
Most coffee varieties are mildly acidic. Chronic consumption of acidic foods and beverages can gradually erode your enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth. Thinner enamel makes your teeth more prone to sensitivity and cavities. A cavity is a hole, indicating permanent damage to your tooth that requires professional dental treatment.
Drinking coffee with sugar, syrup, or creamer also increases your risk of decay and cavities. This is because bacteria in your mouth feed upon your dietary sugar and produce acidic byproducts that erode your enamel.
Keep in mind that most foods and beverages contain sugar or carbohydrates, which are macronutrients that are broken down into sugars. So, it’s important to maintain a superb oral hygiene routine. Drink plenty of water, brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss every day to remove bacteria and food particles from your mouth.
Discoloration
Tannins are organic substances in coffee that can build up on your enamel. Over time, these dark pigments cause teeth to look yellow or brown.
Daily oral hygiene and a routine professional cleaning at the dentist can sometimes remove these coffee stains from your teeth. Professional teeth whitening can also restore the brightness of your smile. Currently, we are offering a new patient gift of a FREE teeth whitening after your initial exam, X-rays, and cleaning!
Tips to Protect Your Teeth When Drinking Coffee
- Limit sugar & dairy additives – Sugar increases your risk of decay and cavities so it’s best to drink coffee with minimal additional ingredients.
- Drink a glass of water afterward – Drinking water will help rinse bacteria and acid away from your teeth.
- Chew sugar-free gum – If you don’t have jaw issues, chewing sugar-free gum after enjoying your coffee can stimulate the production of saliva. Saliva is critical to remineralize your enamel and wash away bacteria and sugary particles.
Remove Coffee Stains with Professional Teeth Whitening
Have you noticed your smile looks darker or more yellow than it used to? Consider professional teeth whitening with Sean Abidin, DDS & Vanessa Cao, DDS. Professional teeth whitening in Westerville, OH, can remove stains, boost your confidence, and makes your teeth look healthier.
As a new patient, be sure to take advantage of our FREE teeth whitening special! Call our office for details.