For most adults, drinking a morning cup of joe or stopping by their local coffee shop for an iced latte has become an integral part of their daily routine. Although it’s energizing and might be a crucial step in getting ready for the day, have you ever thought about how all that coffee is affecting your dental health? With National Coffee Day approaching on September 29th, here are some tips to help you celebrate while keeping your smile healthy.
How Does Coffee Affect Your Dental Health?
Dropping by your local coffee shop every morning for a drink may not be good for your wallet, but it can have some surprising health benefits! One study found that people who drink a cup of black coffee a day are 12% less likely to die from cancer, stroke, diabetes, or heart, kidney, and respiratory diseases. Since it also contains polyphenols, it helps keep your teeth healthy and strong by breaking down plaque-causing bacteria. But despite the benefits, there are still concerns that come with frequent coffee consumption. For example, it can stain your teeth, cause bad breath (halitosis), dry out your mouth, and weaken your teeth. It can also increase your chances of developing cavities, decay, or enamel erosion.
Tips to Protect Your Smile During National Coffee Day
The good news is there are many ways you can minimize coffee’s negative effects on your smile! Here are a few tips you should keep in mind while celebrating National Coffee Day:
Don’t Sip All Day
Even though it’s tempting to enjoy your coffee throughout the day, it’s best to drink it all at once to minimize contact with your teeth. Sipping can lead to staining and enamel erosion, so drink your cup of joe during a designated time frame and finish it. Don’t forget to use a straw – it helps reduce prolonged exposure to sugar and acidity!
Skip the Added Sugar
It’s worth noting that coffee only has health benefits if consumed alone. That means you should avoid adding sugar or syrup to your drink to enhance its flavor. Otherwise, the added sugar can harm your teeth by causing the bacteria in your mouth to produce harmful acids that wear down enamel.
Stay Hydrated
Caffeine can cause dry mouth, which increases your risk of oral infections like gum disease. To prevent dehydration, make sure you drink plenty of water with your coffee! It will freshen your breath and contribute to a healthier mouth!
Brush or Rinse Afterward
About 30 minutes after finishing your coffee, gently brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water. It will help reduce staining and lower your chances of developing bad breath.
Are you excited about National Coffee Day? By following the tips outlined above, you can join in all the celebrations while keeping your smile healthy!
About the Practice
At Meadowbrook Dentistry, we go above and beyond to give you the most friendly and stress-free experience possible. Our team is passionate about helping patients achieve and maintain their absolute best smiles. We enjoy educating patients to help them make informed and confident decisions surrounding their oral health. For more tips on celebrating National Coffee Day the healthy way, visit our website or call (516) 346-5655.