More than half of American adults drink at least one cup of coffee per day. Despite its popularity, many people do not know the potential damage that this beverage can cause to the structure and appearance of teeth.
However, if you take precautions when it comes to your oral health, you do not have to avoid your favorite beverage. Levesque Dentistry, a dental office in Nashua, NH, offers tips to protect your smile while enjoying coffee.
Prevent Teeth Stains
Coffee gets its dark color from tannins, which can absorb tooth enamel over time and leave stains on the surface of your teeth. This discoloration cannot be removed with your typical oral hygiene regimen.
Sipping through a straw, selecting a lighter-colored brew, and adding milk to your beverage can lower the chances of staining your smile when drinking coffee. However, the risk will not be eliminated entirely. If you notice staining or yellowing in your smile, ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening treatment.
Avoid Damage from Added Sugar
Coffee has a naturally bitter taste, so many individuals add sugar to their beverage to enhance its flavor. However, sugar is notoriously dangerous to your oral health.
Sugar reacts with natural bacteria in your mouth to become acidic, which can erode your tooth enamel. Once enamel deteriorates, it cannot regrow on its own, and you can experience uncomfortable symptoms like tooth sensitivity. For this reason, dentists recommend avoiding added sugar wherever possible, including in your coffee.
Drink Water to Preserve Teeth and Gums
Many people appreciate the caffeine boost that comes with drinking a cup of coffee. But caffeine can dehydrate you, which can bring negative effects on your well-being, including your oral health.
Low hydration levels can decrease saliva production and cause the unpleasant sensation of dry mouth. This creates an environment where bacteria can spread easily across your teeth and increase your risk of contracting gum disease. To protect your smile, you should drink water along with your coffee and stay hydrated.
Find More Oral Health Tips from Your Dentist in Nashua, NH
Levesque Dentistry offers professional teeth whitening services and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Nashua, NH. Our practice also specializes in restorative and general dentistry, including periodontal care. To schedule a consultation or appointment with our team, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 603.547.9203.