Are you someone who can’t start their day without a cup of coffee? Or it feels like caffeine addiction you need to wake up, isn’t it? But have you ever thought about coffee’s impact on your teeth and gums? Is that tasty morning pick-me-up drink harming your oral health? Bad or good! Unfortunately, it’s true – coffee has much to do with your oral health.
Coffee can be a bit tough on your teeth. Being acidic, it can damage the enamel on the outside of your teeth. This enamel is strong but not indestructible so it can get worn down by coffee. If not paid attention in the starting stage, you may have to invest in treatment like porcelain veneers. Want to learn about this briefly, keep scrolling until the end.
What Causes Coffee To Stain Your Teeth?
Coffee stains your teeth mainly because of tannins. It is an organic compound in coffee responsible for that slightly bitter taste and dry sensation in your mouth. These tannins have some health benefits as antioxidants, but they also have a knack for turning your teeth into a canvas for stains (black stain).
Your tooth enamel, which is the hardest material of your body, actually has tiny pores. So, when you sip a cup of coffee, these tannins can sneak into those little pores and create deep stains. Plus, because coffee is a bit acidic, it can gradually wear down your enamel, making it easier for stains to stick around. DO YOU KNOW? Roasted coffee contains approx. 1.8% of tannins, whereas tea has around 3.7 %, nearly five times more than coffee.
How Does Your Saliva Protect Your Teeth?
Although the acidic nature of coffee can make tooth enamel softer and more prone to erosion, your body has a built-in defense mechanism to counteract the acidity of coffee. Saliva is vital in preventing cavities, with a pH level of approximately seven to eight on the pH scale, which helps neutralize the effects. This scale spans from zero (highly acidic) to 14 (strongly basic), and saliva’s natural pH level contributes to maintaining a balance.
But if you add sugar and cream to your coffee, it can increase the chances of enamel damage and, over time, lead to tooth decay. Even the saliva isn’t able to neutralize completely the effect if you drink multiple cups of coffee in a short period. Then, you are only left with a few options, like looking for treatment veneers Sydney for a fast changeover.
How Can You Prevent Your Teeth From Staining?
The good news is that you don’t need to give up “COFFEE” to keep your teeth free from those unsightly brown stains. Below are some effective approaches to prevent coffee stains from forming in the first place.
Don’t Sip Slowly, Drink Fast
You don’t have to gulp down your coffee in record time, but consider setting aside around 30 minutes for your coffee break instead of spreading it out over several hours.
Use Straw for Drinking
If coffee doesn’t come in direct contact with your teeth, it won’t cause stains. Sipping coffee through a straw is a clever trick to enjoy without touching your teeth.
Mix in Some Milk
Casein, a component in milk, has the superpower to grab onto the tannins found in coffee and tea, stopping them from clinging to your teeth. But remember, it only works with animal milk. Dairy alternatives like soy or almond milk won’t have the same effect.
Go for Sugar-Free Gum
Xylitol in sugar-free gum encourages more saliva production. This keeps your mouth feeling fresh, stops stains from getting too comfy, and helps in teeth whitening. Also, it neutralizes mouth acids and boosts enamel strength.
Eat Fruits and Veggies
Your diet should include crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots. Their texture acts like a natural toothbrush, helping to clean your teeth. For example, strawberries have malic acid, which can naturally contribute to teeth whitening.
How Do You Get Rid Of Teeth Stains?
Regularly brush with a whitening toothpaste to maintain a bright smile.
Don’t forget to floss to prevent plaque buildup.
Schedule professional cleanings with your dentist to remove surface stains.
Consider teeth-whitening treatments to remove stains and enhance your smile effectively and composite and porcelain veneer for an instant result.
Wrapping Up
All coffee lovers! You don’t have to quit your favorite morning drink just because of this. The only thing you have to pay attention to is its daily consumption amount and alternative ways to minimize its effect. TASTE YOUR FAVOURITE DRINK!!
