Even your family dentist cannot deny the alluring power of coffee, which is why many dental professionals have found ways to keep oral health in top shape without giving up this beloved beverage. If you just have to have that daily cup of joe, follow these tips to prevent any mouth misfortunes.
Before you take that first sip of coffee, grab a straw to keep teeth clean.
When you drink coffee without a straw, the liquid has an easier time swishing around your mouth, sticking to and staining teeth along the way. A straw corrals the liquid and allows it to go more directly to the throat, so it will touch teeth less and reduce the chance of staining.
In addition to adding a creamy, delicious flavor to coffee, milk can also help keep teeth white despite coffee’s reputation for staining.
Tannins, particles found in coffee, stick to teeth and cause the yellowing associated with drinking coffee and tea. According to a study in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene, the milk protein casein attaches to tannins and prevents them from sticking to teeth. This helps stop staining of the teeth.
After each cup of coffee, your family dentist and the ADA recommend following up with a glass of water.
By drinking water after coffee, you can rinse the tannins away. Otherwise, the tannins will remain on the teeth and cause yellowing. Another benefit? Intentionally adding more water to your coffee routine is a great way to stay hydrated.
While coffee has many benefits, it is infamous for causing tooth yellowing and bad breath. Combat both effects at once by chewing sugar-free gum. Make sure to choose sugarless gum with the ADA seal, as sugar can lead to cavities.
According to the ADA, chewing gum helps increase saliva production. Saliva can rinse out food debris, carry away the tannins left by your coffee, neutralize acids from bacteria and even carry calcium and phosphate, which is known to strengthen tooth enamel. The ADA recommends chewing sugar-free gum for about 20 minutes after eating or drinking coffee.
While sugar can help take the bitterness out of coffee, it is better to leave it out of the cup. Instead, experiment with different coffees until you find one you enjoy in its more natural state.
Any family dentist will warn of the havoc sugar can wreak on teeth. Sugars are attractive to bacteria, which can later lead to cavities and tooth decay.
Your family dentist probably loves coffee just as much as you do. If you want to continue drinking this magical elixir without compromising those pearly whites, talk to your family dentist for more advice on keeping your teeth healthy. Request an appointment here: https://buforddentist.com or call North Atlanta Center for Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at (770) 932-1115 for an appointment in our Buford office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
TLDR; Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, offering durability, improved oral function, and a natural appearance. The Dental Implant Procedure involves multiple stages, including consultation, surgery, healing, and crown placement. While highly effective, implants require sufficient bone density, proper oral hygiene, and can be costly. What Are Dental Implants? A dental […]
TLDR; Porcelain veneers on front teeth typically last 10-15 years, while composite veneers last 5-7 years. Their longevity depends on material quality, oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and professional dental care. With proper maintenance, veneers can sometimes last even longer. What Are Dental Veneers? Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surface of […]
How does a professional family dentist weigh in on the following topic? A common trick for whiter teeth passed from mother to daughter is to brush with baking soda. Is the effectiveness of this technique a myth? Or is there wisdom to the old wives’ tale that baking soda will brighten your smile? Find out by reading […]
TLDR; Yes, even if you have no real teeth, regular dental check-ups are essential. Dentists monitor gum health, check for oral cancer, assess jawbone density, and ensure dentures fit properly to prevent discomfort and long-term complications. Skipping dental visits can lead to infections, gum disease, and other serious oral health issues. Why You Still Need […]
Is Jaw Clicking Always a Sign of TMJ? Causes, Concerns, and Solutions Have you ever noticed a clicking or popping sound in your jaw? While this can be concerning, the good news is that jaw clicking is not always a sign of TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder). In many cases, it’s completely harmless and doesn’t require […]
The best whitening options for sensitive teeth include sensitivity-friendly whitening toothpaste, custom-fit at-home whitening trays, LED teeth whitening systems, and professional in-office treatments designed to minimize discomfort. These options ensure effective stain removal while prioritizing enamel care and tooth sensitivity relief. Why Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth Is Challenging Achieving a bright smile when you […]
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
