Washington State is quite known for its coffee culture. It has various local shops as well as popular chains like Starbucks. For most residents, it is not just about the culture; it is a part of their daily routine. While your caffeinated beverage might give you the wake-up booster you need, it has various negative impacts on your oral health.
The primary risks of drinking coffee every day include staining and enamel erosion due to the drink’s acidic nature. Thus, your teeth become more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity. Overlooking the consequences of consuming coffee and not taking adequate measures for protection can cost you.
Regular dental visits to a family dentist in Puyallup, Washington, can help you understand how coffee affects your oral health, what the right amount to consume is, and how you can protect your teeth and gums. Meanwhile, read this blog to learn more about the effects of coffee.
Overview of the coffee scene in Washington
The founder of the iconic coffee brand Starbucks is from Seattle, Washington. Therefore, there is a vibrant coffee scene in Washington. Lattes and cold brews are particularly popular among citizens. Studies show that Washington residents often visit coffee shops, with Starbucks being the most favored chain.
How coffee affects your dental health
The consumption of coffee is a major part of Washington’s culture. However, excessive consumption or not taking proper care of your teeth after a caffeinated beverage can cause dental health problems.
1. Staining of teeth.
Drinking a cup of coffee every day increases your risk of teeth staining. Coffee stains your teeth due to the presence of a substance called tannins. These are organic compounds that stick to your teeth and cause discoloration with time. There are tiny pores on your teeth through which these substances seep in. This causes your teeth to appear yellow or brown.
2. Erosion of tooth enamel.
Coffee is an acidic beverage with a pH level between 4.8 and 5.2. This level of acidity can harm your tooth enamel and weaken the tooth structure. Drinking coffee regularly makes you more vulnerable to cavities and tooth decay. Your teeth also become more sensitive to hot and cold items.
3. Dry mouth and bacteria growth.
Caffeine can create a feeling of dryness in your mouth and reduce saliva production. Saliva is very important for optimal dental health as it washes away bacteria and food residue. Therefore, when saliva flow decreases, your mouth becomes more susceptible to bacterial growth, increasing the risk of bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Protecting your dental health while also enjoying coffee
There are several steps you can take to reduce the effects of coffee on your teeth. For instance, you can drink coffee using a straw to minimize its impact on your teeth. This can help prevent discoloration. Remember to rinse your mouth properly with water after every cup of coffee to wash away tannins and reduce the chances of staining and acidic effects on teeth.
Good oral hygiene is non-negotiable for coffee drinkers. Brush your teeth twice a day and use a mouthwash. Make it a rule to drink a cup of water after coffee to prevent discoloration. Additionally, regular dental check-ups should be scheduled to remove stains using teeth whitening or other treatments.
Alternatives to coffee
If you want to consider quitting coffee for your dental health, there are various alternatives you can try. Green tea, white tea, and herbal teas are less acidic and less likely to stain teeth compared to coffee. Additionally, cold brew coffee is generally less acidic than regular coffee.
Don’t let coffee ruin your smile!
If you are a coffee lover, it might be challenging for you to quit your wake-up booster drink. However, there are ways to protect your teeth while still enjoying a cup every day. Visit your dentist in Washington today!
