How To Protect Your Teeth This National Coffee Day

Many people rely on a hot mug of coffee to get moving every morning. Others prefer the clink of ice in their latte during the day. Whatever your preference, drinking coffee is a popular (and delicious) pastime with about 70% of adults consuming it daily. Your dentist knows, though, that this beloved beverage can impact our oral well-being in ways that can be less than pleasant. With World Coffee Day on September 29^th, it’s a great time to learn what effect this drink has on our health. Keep reading to learn more about it, and how to keep your pearly whites safe!

What Does Coffee Do To Teeth?

Your cup of joe might be getting you up in the morning, but it comes with some potential risks. Consistent coffee drinkers are more likely to experience:

• Staining. This popular beverage contains an ingredient called tannin which is known to cause discoloration.
• Dry Mouth. Coffee can inhibit saliva production, which is our mouth’s natural defense against bacteria and unwanted food particles. This can lead to a drier environment where germs can fester.
• Bad Breath. This drink can stick to your tongue leaving an unpleasant smell.
• Weakened Teeth. There is a high acid content in coffee that works with bacteria in your mouth to deteriorate the protective enamel of your teeth.

Now that you know how it can cause some harm, you might want to think twice before pouring yourself another cup.

How Can I Prevent Damage To My Teeth From Coffee?

If these risks aren’t enough for you to limit your coffee consumption, there are a few things you can do to mitigate possible damage to your teeth, including:

• Enjoying it at certain times. Instead of sipping coffee throughout the day, you can designate specific times like at breakfast or lunch to limit exposure.
• Drink it with a straw. This way you can still enjoy your favorite beverage while minimizing how much comes into contact with your pearly whites.
• Drinking plenty of water. This helps to flush your mouth and keep it clear of acidic ingredients or bacteria.
• Consider brushing afterward. Wait about 30 minutes after you’ve finished your cup of joe, then brush and floss. This helps neutralize acids in your mouth.
• Eat raw fruits and veggies. These foods have natural fibers that help to keep your teeth clean.

Now that you know all about how coffee can impact your grin, as well as how to mitigate the effects, you can make the most of National Coffee Day. That’s certainly something to smile about!

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, patients of all ages benefit from a team consisting of general dentists as well as specialists in various fields. No matter what your dental need, our friendly and dedicated team are here to help. If you’re in the Mesquite area and would like to schedule a dental cleaning, you are welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 331-5300.