For many of us, coffee is a staple at the breakfast table—our days don’t really start until we’ve caffeinated! Because coffee is so well-established as part of our morning routine, it can contribute to dental changes—both aesthetic and functional. Keep reading to learn more from our Santa Monica dentists about the effects of coffee…

Discoloration

Naturally white and bright enamel can start to look dark and dull as coffee leaves color deposits on your teeth over time. To discourage discoloration, you want to minimize the amount of time that coffee is able to sit on your smile, and rinse your mouth once you are done drinking. And remember that whitening toothpastes, as well as professional treatments, can help restore your smile to its natural shade.

Acidic Exposure

You also want to be mindful of the fact that coffee is acidic. Dental enamel is actually temporarily softened by acidic foods and drinks. So your dental enamel will be more porous and vulnerable while you drink your coffee, and for about twenty to thirty minutes after you are done drinking. Promptly rinse your smile to clear away coffee remnants, and to jump-start the production of remineralizing saliva.

Additional Sugars

If you take your coffee with sugar, syrups, or creamers, you also have to be aware of how these additions can affect oral bacteria. Bacteria use sugars and refined carbohydrates as fuel, so it will be extra important for you to rinse your smile and follow all of your dentist’s recommendations for at-home and professional oral hygiene care. The goal is to make it as difficult as possible for bacteria to thrive in your mouth!

Care for your smile to the best of your ability by personalizing your oral hygiene plan to fit your unique life. Our Santa Monica dentists can help you minimize the effects of coffee on your smile. The best way to get started is to contact our team for a personal consultation—just give us a call!