Coffee is one of the most popular drinks around the world, and approximately half of American adults enjoy this beverage regularly. Whether hot, iced, or frozen, a large number of people consider coffee to be a beloved part of their daily routine.
However, coffee can be detrimental to your smile’s appearance and structure if not enjoyed responsibly. Dr. Matthew Jenne, a dentist in Garner, NC, describes three oral health risks you may be exposed to when drinking coffee.
Beware of Tooth Discoloration
Coffee’s dark color comes from substances called tannins, which can absorb into tooth enamel and stain the surface of your teeth. This discoloration cannot be removed with teeth brushing methods.
Sipping from a straw, choosing a lighter brew, or adding milk to your beverage can lower the risk of tooth discoloration from coffee but will not remove the chances entirely. If you notice yellowing or staining in your smile, you can ask your dentist about cosmetic teeth whitening treatment.
Avoid Sugar and Tooth Decay
Coffee has a naturally bitter taste, so many coffee drinkers add sugar to their beverage to enhance its flavor. But added sugar can severely harm your dental health over time.
Sugar reacts with bacteria in your mouth to become acidic, which can erode tooth enamel, leaving your teeth vulnerable to decay and other dental problems. To prevent this damage, you should avoid added sugar wherever possible, including in your coffee cup.
Stay Hydrated to Protect Your Gums
The caffeine boost that comes with a cup of coffee is appealing for many coffee enthusiasts. However, caffeine can dehydrate you, which can have negative effects on your overall health.
Low hydration levels can also cause dry mouth, an unpleasant condition that allows bacteria to spread more easily across your teeth. This heightens your risk for infections like gum disease.
Untreated gum disease can cause severe tooth damage, potentially resulting in tooth loss. You should drink plenty of water along with coffee to protect your periodontal health.
More Oral Health Tips from Your Dentist in Garner, NC
Garner Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offer professional tooth whitening and other cosmetic dental treatment to patients of all ages. Dr. Jenne is a highly qualified dentist in Garner, NC, specializing in restorative and general dentistry. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 919.238.3470.