If you are like many people, then you may enjoy a nice cup of liquid gold in the morning. You might drink it at home before starting your day or use it to give you the boost you need for work. But with National Coffee Day coming up (September 29th), you may be excited to splurge a bit on your favorite beverage. However, enjoyers beware because it can cause some oral health issues. Keep reading to learn how and in what ways you can drink it safely.
What Does Coffee Do to My Teeth?
Two main parts of coffee that can be harmful to your teeth are the acidity and sugar content. As you drink it and let it linger in your mouth, you risk it wearing down your enamel. Over time, it can become weakened, which may not be the best for your oral health. You’re likely to experience some sensitivity or have a higher chance of cavities, as harmful bacteria can erode your enamel more easily.
Plenty of people also add sugar and other additives to make this drink less bitter. The sweet taste may be more enjoyable, but it can also increase your risk of tooth decay. The plaque in your mouth eats the sugar particles to produce acid that dissolves the top layer of your teeth.
Not only that, but you may end up with a few stains on your teeth. While it isn’t necessarily an issue, this can make you feel a bit self-conscious about your smile. Regular brushing may not brighten your grin as much as you want it to, so a great way to get noticeable results is with a professional teeth whitening treatment from your dentist!
How You Can Safely Celebrate National Coffee Day
The good news is that you don’t have to stop drinking a cup of joe every morning to avoid the issues above! There are some simple tips you can follow to protect your oral health on National Coffee Day and beyond. While limiting your intake of it is an option, you can also:
- Drink through a straw to reduce how often it touches your teeth.
- Alternate sips of water or rinse afterward to clear out any leftover sugar or staining particles.
- Lighten up on how many additives you put in to lower your risk of cavities
In the end, a great way to keep your oral health the best it can be is by following a proper dental hygiene routine. You should brush your teeth twice and floss between them at least once every day. Additionally, consistent visits with your dentist can help you avoid any oral health issues for a happier smile.
About the Author
Dr. Michael O’Brien earned his dental degree from the University of Las Vegas Nevada School of Dental Medicine. He believes in taking a proactive approach toward your dental problems, meaning he starts with preventive care. With state-of-the-art technology, Dr. O’Brien can catch issues while they are minor and keep them from becoming a big headache later. If it’s time for your next cleaning, schedule an appointment or call his office at (918) 477-9000.