Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the entire world, and approximately half of all American adults enjoy coffee on a regular basis. Whether it is hot, iced, or cold brew, coffee is a staple in the routines of many individuals.
However, coffee can negatively impact your oral health if you are not careful. Dr. Brenda Paulen, a cosmetic dentist in Sandy Springs, GA, describes how you can keep your teeth healthy while drinking coffee.
Beware of Teeth Discoloration
Coffee gets its dark color from substances called tannins, which can absorb into tooth enamel over time and leave stains on the surface of your teeth. These cannot be removed with typical teeth brushing habits.
Drinking with a straw, adding milk to your beverage, or selecting a lighter-colored brew can lower your risk of tooth discoloration while drinking coffee but will not eliminate the risk completely. If you notice staining or yellowing in your smile, you can ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening treatment.
Avoid Added Sugar
Coffee tastes bitter on its own, so many coffee drinkers add sugar to their beverage to enhance the flavor. This can be harmful to your dental health because sugar reacts with bacteria in your mouth to become acidic.
This acid can eat away at enamel and cause serious dental concerns such as tooth decay. For this reason, dentists recommend avoiding added sugar wherever possible, including in your coffee.
Stay Hydrated
One of the biggest draws of drinking coffee for many people is the caffeine boost. However, caffeine dehydrates you, which can cause problems throughout your body, including your mouth.
Low hydration levels can decrease saliva production and leave you with dry mouth, an unpleasant sensation that also raises your risk of oral health concerns. This environment allows bacteria to spread more easily across your teeth, heightening the chances of oral infections and gum disease.
Gum disease can be treated with periodontal therapy, but dentists recommend preventative care primarily. You should drink water with your coffee to ensure you stay hydrated and protect your smile.
Visit a Cosmetic Dentist in Sandy Springs, GA
Dr. Paulen is an expert dentist offering professional teeth whitening and other cosmetic dental services to patients in Sandy Springs, GA. Our practice also specializes in restorative, implant, and general dentistry, including both preventative and emergency dental care. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 404.418.7734.