Everything gets better with a cup of coffee. Who won’t agree to this? But there is a very common frequently asked question – “Is coffee bad for your teeth?”
Yes, coffee does have hazardous effects on the teeth, just like any other beverage would have.
However, there are ways to prevent dental threats even with a mug of coffee by your side.
Table of Contents
Harmful effects of coffee on teeth
1) Sensitive Teeth
Coffee has a low pH value making it acidic.
Acids present in the coffee attack the enamel layer of the tooth.
The enamel breakdown leads to the exposure of the dentinal layer.
Exposure of the dentinal layer causes sensitivity.
This sensitivity is due to the exposure of nerve endings present in the dentin.
That’s why most dentists advise using enamel-strengthening toothpaste to make the enamel more resistant to corrosion and to slow or stop the loss of enamel caused by drinking coffee.
2) Tooth decay
Few studies suggest that coffee has antibacterial effects.
However, coffee with various additives like sugar, cream or artificial sweeteners helps in the growth of bacteria on the teeth.
Also, bacteria proliferate on the weak, acid attacked teeth making the consumption of coffee worrisome.
3) Staining
Coffee contains dark pigments like tannins that get deposited on the enamel.
Teeth have many pits, fissures and irregularities on its lingual surface.
High intake of coffee can lead to stain formation on these surfaces.
This results in yellow teeth and a dark smile.
When consumed in excess, the stains of a coffee drinker resemble stains of a tobacco smoker.
Some believe that the addition of cream helps reduce staining.
But it is important to note that cream only increases the bacterial formation and nothing else
4) Tooth grinding
Coffee contains neurostimulators like caffeine and theobromine, which increases anxiety or may complicate anxiety disorders.
The rise in stress causes teeth grinding, which leads to sensitivity and tooth damage.
Teeth grinding also strains jaw muscles which can cause pain in the jaw and teeth.
The temperomandibular joint gets affected, leading to clicking sound and pain.
5) Dry Mouth and Bad Breath
Caffeine reduces the flow of saliva, leading to dry mouth and bad breath.
Caffeine acts as a diuretic leading to dehydration.
Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth.
Saliva neutralizes acids produced by plaque and washes away dead cells and debris from the teeth, tongue and gums.
If these dead cells and debris are not removed then they decompose and cause bad breath.
How to prevent coffee from harming your teeth
There are ways to enjoy a coffee while limiting the adverse effects of the acids and pigments present in it.
Here are some ways to minimize the harmful effects of coffee on teeth:
1. Ways to consume
One should consume coffee without sugar or cream added to it.
The intake of black coffee helps reduce the growth of bacteria.
The ability of coffee to fight dental infections depends on the presence or absence of sugar and artificial sweeteners.
2. Usage of straw
Use a straw while sipping your coffee.
The use of a straw helps dodge your teeth, thus avoiding staining.
Lesser the contact between coffee and teeth, lower is its side effects.
3. Rinse your mouth
Rinse your mouth with water after having a cup of coffee.
Water washes away the stains deposited on the teeth.
4. Importance of water
Drink a glass of water to avoid dry mouth and dehydration.
5. Tooth Brushing
Brush your teeth post-drinking coffee to prevent staining of teeth.
However, it would be best if you waited for an hour before brushing.
Teeth become weak due to the acids present in the coffee.
Brushing immediately may cause further weakening of teeth.
6. Consumption of fruits/vegetables
If brushing is not possible, chew some fruits or vegetables like apples and celery.
7. Avoid before sleep
Avoid drinking coffee before going to bed. This helps to get better sleep and prevents teeth grinding.
8. Oral hygiene
Maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing of teeth should be done regularly.
9. Visiting a dentist
If drinking coffee stains your teeth, then you should visit a dentist for a tooth whitening procedure.
The number of dental visits for the teeth whitening procedure depends on the amount of tooth discolouration.
This process involves the use of dental bleach.
The effect of this treatment lasts for a few years, depending on oral habits.
Summary
Coffee tastes great but is coffee bad for your teeth compared to other drinks?
Compared to other drinks, although coffee is not kind to your teeth, it is not worse than other beverages if it is consumed in moderate amount.
One or two cups a day, and following a healthy home dental care routine helps contain adverse dental effects.