Whether it is coffee, tea, or a brightly-colored energy drink, caffeine has become a regular part of many morning routines. In fact, many are unable to properly function before their daily dose of a caffeinated beverage…but while our brains may be grateful, how is it affecting our teeth?
On its own, caffeine is relatively harmless. It offers beneficial antioxidants, brain stimulation & fatigue reduction. However, like all things, it is best taken in moderation. Unless it is pure black coffee, caffeinated drinks often consist of ingredients such as sugar, acids & dyes that may lead to oral health complications if left unregulated.
Stains That Stick
The first & most glaring consequence of caffeine (with coffee in particular) is teeth staining.
Coffee contains chomogens & tannins, which are highly pigmented molecules that color the drink & hence lead to discoloration of your teeth. Chromogens readily stick to tooth enamel, leading to yellow or brown stains over time. Tannins, which give coffee its rich & dark color, help chromogens adhere to the enamel by making stains more stubborn & unable to be removed with just regular brushing.
Erosion That Exposes
Beyond staining, coffee & other caffeinated drinks are also acidic & can leave your teeth vulnerable to cavities by weakening your tooth enamel.
The acids start by weakening your enamel, the outer protective layer of your teeth. Then, once the enamel erodes, it exposes the yellow dentin underneath, which contributes to your teeth appearing discolored. Enamel erosion is the gateway to increased tooth sensitivity & a higher risk of cavities.
Tea, soda & energy drinks can also cause tooth decay & stains. They are all high in acidity & full of sugar— both of which are breeding grounds for the road to cavities.
Dryness That Damages
If that all wasn’t already enough, caffeine is also a diuretic, which means it decreases saliva production & often leads to a dry mouth. Because saliva is crucial for neutralizing acids & washing away food particles, less saliva allows bacteria to collect more easily & lead to plaque, bad breath & an increased risk of cavities.
Habits That Help
So how do you keep your teeth healthy when drinking caffeine?
- Limit your caffeine intake. You do not need to swear off caffeine entirely, but moderation is essential. Cut back where you can & try to find alternative, less acidic & less sugar-y options.
- Brush your teeth beforehand! Brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste before you drink a caffeinated beverage helps give your enamel a protective boost against acidity.
- Drink water after! Chasing down a caffeinated drink with a glass of water will help neutralize the acids & residual sugars. It will also rehydrate your mouth, which is a safeguard against dry mouth & preventing cavities. Chewing sugar-free gum is also another method of increasing saliva flow & neutralizing acids—it also comes with the bonus of fresher breath.
- Use a straw! Sipping drinks through a straw minimizes contact with your teeth & thus prevents residue to stick on them.
- Avoid the sugar! The more sugar there is in your drink, the more bacteria it can potentially breed. If you want to keep your drink sweet but minimize risk, use sweeteners instead of sugar or milk.
Prevention That Protects
Moderation & mindfulness are key to success here! Caffeine does not have to be a villain in your oral health story, as long as you maintain good habits & take preventative measures against potential damage.
If you notice persistent stains or increased sensitivity, it is best to schedule an appointment with your dentist to get proper treatment for your smile! Nevertheless, a regular cleaning every 6 months is recommended regardless to catch & prevent any oral health issues from arising.
Sources
https://newburydentalgroup.com/coffee-stains-teeth-what-you-should-know-before-your-next-cup/
https://www.rocklanddentalspecialists.com/the-effects-that-coffee-can-have-on-your-teeth/
https://fittosmile.com/how-does-coffee-affect-your-dental-health/
https://www.kalochiesmiles.com/2023/09/29/sip-smart-protect-your-teeth-from-coffee/