Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, and approximately half of American adults enjoy it on a regular basis. From cozying with a warm mug at home to grabbing an iced drink on the way to work, coffee has become a staple to the routines of many individuals.
However, coffee notoriously can prove detrimental to your oral health in many ways if you are not careful. Dr. Justin Deckard, a dentist in Washington, DC, describes how you can keep your teeth healthy while drinking coffee.
Beware of Teeth Stains
Coffee gets its dark color from substances called tannins, which can absorb into the top layer of your teeth over time and leave stains on your enamel. These cannot be removed with typical brushing and flossing practices.
Drinking through a straw, adding milk to your beverage, or choosing a lighter-colored brew can lower the risk of tooth discoloration from coffee, but it does not eliminate the possibility completely. If you notice yellowing, staining, or discoloration in your teeth, you can ask your doctor about professional teeth whitening treatment.
Avoid Added Sugar
Coffee has a naturally bitter taste, so many coffee enthusiasts add sugar to their drink to enhance the flavor. Sugar is notoriously bad for your dental health because it reacts with bacteria in your mouth to become acidic.
The acid then eats away at tooth enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to decay and other dental issues. Once enamel is lost, it cannot regrow on its own. To protect your teeth, dentists recommend avoiding added sugar wherever possible, including in your coffee.
Stay Hydrated
Many people appreciate the boost of caffeine that accompanies a cup of coffee. Caffeine has the tendency to dehydrate you, which can be dangerous for multiple systems of your body, including your mouth.
Low hydration levels can decrease saliva production and leave you with dry mouth. This condition allows bacteria to spread more freely through your mouth, increasing your risk for oral infections, like gum disease. You should drink plenty of water along with coffee to circumvent these potential effects.
Visit Your Dentist in Washington, DC
DC Precision Dentistry offers professional teeth whitening and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Washington, DC. Dr. Deckard also specializes in restorative, implant, and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule a consultation or appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 202.851.7554.