Does your day not really start until you’ve had your morning cup of joe? You’re not the only one; almost 70% of adults in the United States drink coffee on a daily basis, according to the National Coffee Association. If you’re part of that statistic, you’ll be happy to know that there’s upcoming observance dedicated to this beverage. September 29 is National Coffee Day, and plenty of cafes offer special deals to mark the occasion. But did you know that too much coffee might actually damage your teeth? Here’s what you need to know about the link between coffee and dental health – and how you can keep your smile safe.
Watch Out for These Dental Issues That Coffee May Cause
Coffee can give you the energy boost you need to greet the morning or to power through an afternoon lull, but it comes with certain risks. If you’re a daily coffee drinker, keep an eye out for the following oral health concerns:
- Stained teeth – Dark beverages like coffee can discolor your teeth over time, even if you lighten your coffee with cream.
- Dry mouth – Coffee causes your mouth to produce less saliva, making it easier for dangerous bacteria to thrive.
- Bad breath – Molecules in coffee can actually stick to your tongue and lead to foul-smelling breath.
- Cavities – Most cavities are caused by acids produced by oral bacteria, but frequently consuming acidic beverages like coffee can speed this process along and increase your risk of tooth decay.
That being said, there are still plenty of ways that you can celebrate National Coffee Day without putting your pearly whites at risk.
How to Enjoy Coffee Without Harming Your Smile
Water is by far the healthiest drink choice for your smile, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should quit drinking coffee altogether. You might just need to make a few small changes to safeguard your smile.
Drink Coffee at Certain Times
Try to have your cup of coffee quickly with breakfast, lunch, or a snack. Slowly sipping it over the course of the day exposes your teeth to acids and staining particles, worsening their effects.
Keep Your Teeth Clean
If you can’t brush your teeth after you finish your cup of joe, drink some water to help rinse some of the leftover coffee debris off of your teeth and gums. Additionally, be sure to regularly brush, floss, and visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings.
Eat Mouth-Healthy Foods
Certain foods can offset some of the negative effects of coffee by minimizing bacterial growth in your mouth and reducing tooth discoloration. Incorporate plenty of mouth-healthy foods into your diet, such as yogurt, apples, strawberries, celery, and carrots.
Enjoy Coffee in Moderation
Most things in life should be enjoyed in moderation, and coffee is no exception. Experts usually suggest sticking to a maximum of two cups of coffee per day. Not only can it keep your mouth healthier, but it can reduce anxiety, insomnia, and other general health problems that may result from overconsumption of caffeine.
Celebrate National Coffee Day the Healthy Way!
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or more of a casual consumer, keep the above tips in mind. That way, you can look forward to a healthy smile and a delicious, refreshing beverage this National Coffee Day!
About the Author
Dr. James K. Kramer has more than 30 years of experience as a dentist in Selbyville, DE. He has also earned a Mastership of the Academy of General Dentistry, a feat that fewer than 5% of all dentists in the U.S. have accomplished. He emphasizes a preventive approach to dental care by educating his patients on how to maintain healthy smiles in between routine checkups. To learn more about coffee and dental health, contact Dr. Kramer at 302-436-5133.