Coffee is considered one of the most versatile and popular beverages worldwide, and on September 29, people throughout the U.S. and Canada will celebrate National Coffee Day! As fun as it sounds, it’s important to remember that too much of a good thing can wreak havoc on your smile. Before you indulge in your morning brew, here are 4 ways to join in the festivities without harming your smile.
What Issues Can Occur When Drinking Coffee?
Whether it’s your go-to drink in the morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, coffee can be a delicious addition to your day. However, depending on how you like it, it can cause serious problems for your smile over time. For example, this dark-colored beverage can cause:
- Tooth Stains & Discoloration: The tannins that exist and give coffee its rich taste can stick to the enamel and leave a brownish tint if left in place too long.
- Enamel Erosion: Coffee is acidic, which means it can wear down tooth enamel over time. If you lose too much, you’ll have nothing to protect the inner layer (dentin), resulting in increased sensitivity, discoloration, and an increased risk of dental decay.
- Bad Breath: There’s no denying that coffee puts out a strong aroma on its own, but when you drink it, the liquid mixes with the bacteria in your mouth, causing a foul odor.
How Can You Drink Coffee & Protect Your Smile?
There are risks to drinking a cup of coffee, but there are also ways to continue enjoying your morning brew without harming your smile. If you want to celebrate National Coffee Day on September 29, make sure that you:
- Rinse your mouth with water after drinking your coffee so that tannins don’t have a chance to stick to your tooth enamel.
- Brush your teeth 30 minutes after finishing your cup of coffee. Doing it right away will only spread existing bacteria and potentially weaken your enamel. However, if you wait, you can protect your teeth and remove unsightly stains.
- Drink it with a straw so the liquid doesn’t come in direct contact with your teeth.
- Snack on raw vegetables to help clean your teeth and remove surface stains, as they are considered natural toothbrushes.
Go ahead and enjoy your coffee on this special day, but keep in mind what you need to do to keep your smile shining bright.
About the Author
Dr. Chung Chien Hsia strives not only to help patients avoid cavities and other common dental problems but also to educate them on how to better care for their teeth and gums. He earned his dental degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine and brings his expertise to the office each day, providing patients with the highest-quality care in the area. Whether you’re inquiring about a toothache or seeking ways to improve your at-home oral hygiene, we invite you to visit our website or call (214) 432–1133 to schedule an appointment today.
