Did you know that National Coffee Day is September 29th? That’s right around the corner, and during prime pumpkin spice season, too! Avid coffee drinkers definitely have a reason to smile with excitement. Few simple pleasures are more satisfying than getting cozy with your favorite brew, but there are some dental health pointers you’ll want to keep in mind. Don’t worry, there are ways you can have a pristine smile and your coffee too!
Strong Flavor and Strong Pigments
Let’s address the obvious: coffee can stain your teeth. Whether you drink it black or prefer something much sweeter, the pigments that make up that gorgeous espresso color will settle into the pores of your enamel. Sadly, on your teeth the shade will look quite tarnished and yellowy.
Acidity, Coffee, and Your Enamel
“Acidic” might not be the first word you would use to describe your latte, but chemically speaking, coffee has a high enough acidity to harm enamel. Enjoying it in moderation is generally safe. However, if you make a cup or two of espresso every morning, you could be in danger of wearing down your teeth’s natural defenses, which can make them prone to sensitivity and vulnerable to cavities and gum disease.
The Benefits of a Good Cup of Joe
The dental effects of your mochas and javas aren’t all bad, though, so don’t give up just yet! Coffee is rich in polyphenols. Simply put, these compounds act as antioxidants, and provide several health benefits, such as lowering your risk for type 2 diabetes, promoting cardiovascular health, and breaking down harmful bacteria.
That last one is important for your teeth, because bacteria growth is directly linked to tooth decay and gum disease. Just go easy on the sugar. Artificial sweeteners will speed up bacteria growth, potentially counteracting coffee’s polyphenols if you consume too much.
Enjoying Coffee the Smile-Friendly Way
Regardless of whether you’re into coffee because of the health benefits or the taste (let’s be honest, it’s probably the taste!), you can indulge in National Coffee Day without harming your pearly white smile. Here are some preventative care tips:
- Drink coffee through a straw to limit staining contact with your teeth.
- Snack on raw vegetables and fruits. Breakfast staples like potatoes, eggplant, avocados, and bananas help keep teeth shiny by neutralizing acids with fiber.
- If you quaff down your coffee in one sitting, rinse your mouth afterwards to help wash out strong pigments and bacteria. Or if you’re a slower sipper, take rinse breaks throughout the day.
- Maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine, which means brushing twice per day, flossing once per day, and visiting your dentist every six months for a professional-grade cleaning.
Being a coffee lover doesn’t come without risks, even when it comes to your teeth. But keep these concerns in mind and practice smart dental strategies, and you’ll be able to smile wider for National Coffee Day!
About the Author
Dr. Tommy Murph has diligently pursued continuing education and is even a member of the prestigious American Dental Association. Basically, that means he stays up to date with the latest research in dentistry and abides by a strict code of ethics. You can trust that he’ll provide you with accurate information and wants the best for your oral health! If you’d like to know more about how coffee affects your teeth or how best to maintain your precious pearly whites, call Dr. Murph’s office at 843-488-4357.