Nothing beats the smell of a coffee house, except maybe the combined smell of a fresh cup of coffee and the old-world musk of a library. National Coffee Day might be just about the best time to enjoy both at the same time. So, this September 29th, it’s time to gather your friends over a cup of brown and let the good times percolate.
But how can you enjoy coffee if you’re trying to watch out for your oral health? Continue reading to find out how you can enjoy a cup of joe guilt-free on National Coffee Day.
Why Is Coffee Bad For Your Teeth?
Before exploring options on how to make coffee better for your oral health, the reasons for the modifications should be explored.
- It Stains Your Teeth – Coffee contains chemicals called tannins. These tannins contribute to coffee’s bitter taste and dark color. These chemicals are also responsible for the heavy staining it can leave on your pearly whites.
- It’s Acidic – The acidity of coffee contributes to the erosion of enamel which is the hard outer part of your teeth. As the enamel is worn away, it becomes more susceptible to cavities.
- It Causes Cavities – Along with the erosion of the enamel, coffee also triggers bacterial plaque to begin eating into your teeth. As the bacteria reacts with the liquid, it produces its own acid, eventually creating small holes in the tooth. If you take your coffee with sugar and cream, it expediates this process.
- It Causes Bad Breath – Coffee’s thick odor can stick in your mouth for hours, activating mouth bacteria and causing a bad smell.
How Can I Enjoy Coffee More Healthily?
There are several ways to reduce or negate the negative effects of coffee!
- Drink Water After – Coffee has a tendency to stick around after it’s consumed. By drinking water after finishing your coffee, you’ll wash away much of the remnants. This will reduce the severity of staining and the amount of bacteria it produces in your mouth.
- Drink Coffee Faster – The amount of coffee you drink isn’t as important as how fast you drink it where oral health is concerned. Instead of sipping on it throughout the day, try to drink it all in one session. This will prevent continual exposure and allow you to chase it with water for a cleaner finish.
- Use a Straw – It can be a good idea to use a straw to drink coffee instead of sipping it straight if you’re trying to protect your teeth. This will reduce the contact the liquid has with your teeth.
- Eat Your Veggies – Weird but true, eating some snack-worthy vegetables like carrots or celery can reduce tooth staining and freshen your breath after a cup of joe.
- Brush and Floss – Around 30 minutes after your last cup, it’s a great idea to brush your teeth and floss to remove acid, discoloration, and plaque from your teeth.
With these tips, your National Coffee Day can be a delight, and you can keep your smile healthy! Remember, everything in moderation is the key to a happy, healthy mouth. If nothing else, keep your oral health in check so you can enjoy the next coffee day. That should be motivation enough!
About the Practice
At Celebration Family Dental of Carrollton, Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya provides quality dental care with a personal touch. The team is dedicated to offering dental care tailored to your needs every time. With his experience, Dr. Shekhadiya offer a wide range of dental services so their patients are always cared for. To schedule an appointment, call (469) 694-3766 or visit the website to explore their services.