Did you know that your morning coffee is damaging your teeth?

Did you know that your morning coffee is damaging your teeth?

CLINICAL CONTENT WRITTEN & REVIEWED BY CLOVE CLINICAL TEAM

Last Modified: July 4, 2023

FACT CHECKED

Coffee is consumed by an excellent percentage of people globally. The major active ingredient in coffee is caffeine, which is believed to be the best-known agent among the human population that activates the human brain and body. Commercial products developed for beverages from coffee are very philanthropic in several aspects but dangerous to an individual’s oral health.

You are a consumer of coffee or tea who can keep the resultant dental problems like staining, decaying, or gum diseases without quitting your morning caffeine.

How Does Caffeine Affect Oral Health?

The consumption of caffeine exerts several impacts on oral health, causing stains, decay, and gum disease in the teeth. Here is how caffeine impacts oral health:

  • Teeth-Staining: Coffee is a chromogenic compound that easily bonds with the enamel. The bonding over time results in discoloration and staining of the enamel. Dark pigment of coffee will penetrate through the pores of the porous enamel of the teeth, and they become yellow or brown and can’t be washed off easily.
  • Tooth Decay: In reality, the sugar is what provides access to the bacteria that consume it once it has fermented, which forms an acid that can pass through the enamel of your tooth and finally leads to holes or cavities and other words used in science. Cavities and erosion are the possible outcomes of consuming excessive amounts of coffee or any caffeine-enhanced beverage or introducing sugars.
  • Gum Disease: The intake of the sodas facilitates gum disease because of gum and bone destruction that forms the ground of the tooth. Saliva, which shall be lacking in the cases of caffeine through coffee and tea, is vital in washing out food particles and the bacteria present in the oral cavity. This will, therefore allow more multiplication of bacteria and may lead to inflammation of the gums and infection.

Dental Problems Cause by Caffeine: Prevention

There are several ways which may be used in preventing or even reducing these dental problems caused by caffeine.

  • Brush and floss daily:Brushing and flossing will continually remove the stains as well as the gradual progression of tooth decay and gum disease. Use a fluoride toothpaste, brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily to pull food particles and plaque away between your teeth.
  • Rinse mouth: Since it has acids, acidic content in your mouth shall be washed away after you have consumed caffeinated drinks by rinsing it with water. Additionally, the fluoride or antiseptic containing mouthwashes prevent dental caries and gum diseases.
  • Use a Straw: This shall minimize your drink, that is coffee or any other caffeinated beverage, from touching your teeth directly. This minimizes risks of stains and decays.

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