For many of us, our days don’t really start until we’ve enjoyed a cup or two of energizing coffee. However, coffee does more than simply give us a boost; there are a number of ways that coffee can leave a lasting effect on our smiles as time goes on. Keep reading to learn more from our Mill Valley dentists…
Discoloration
Coffee is one of many beverages that includes something called tannin. Tannin is a discoloring agent, so, over time, it will leave color deposits on your dental enamel. You’ll find that your enamel looks darker, stained, yellower, and even brown as time goes on. Stick to your daily oral hygiene schedule in order to keep discoloration to a minimum, and talk to your dental team about whitening treatments to lighten your teeth by several shades.
Acidic Exposure
When dental enamel comes into contact with something acidic, like coffee, it temporarily softens and becomes more porous. Unfortunately, in this state, enamel is more susceptible than normal to infection, damage, and discoloration. Rinse your mouth to minimize acid’s effect; it’s important that you rinse rather than brush, because brushing too quickly after acid exposure can actually cause enamel deterioration.
Additional Sugars
Many of our favorite coffee drinks contain additional syrups and sugars. The harmful oral bacteria that cause dental cavities and gum disease love to use sugar and refined carbohydrates as fuel to grow and multiply. Regularly consuming sweet coffee drinks may increase your risk of developing oral health problems, as well as bad breath.
If you want help making a smile-safe plan for coffee consumption, our Mill Valley dentists are here to help you. The best way to get started is to schedule a personal consultation with our helpful team. We can take a look at your smile and make some recommendations on ways to protect your smile.