While coffee helps us rise, it may not necessarily help us shine. Coffee lovers around the world may not realize that their favorite morning brew could be dampening their otherwise dazzling white smiles. We all know that regular intake of coffee stains teeth over time, but what causes these stains and can they be reversed? Let’s find out!
Why does coffee stain teeth?
Coffee contains high concentrations of the three primary culprits of tooth discoloration: chromogens, tannins, and acid. Chromogens are pigment-carrying compounds that easily cling to tooth enamel and discolor over time. Tannins are antioxidants that give certain beverages a deep color and bitter taste. Acids can soften enamel, making it easier for discoloration to occur. These compounds can triple-team our teeth, causing a yellowing or darkening effect.
It’s worth noting that coffee is not the only culprit when it comes to teeth staining. Other drinks and foods, such as black tea, red wine, sugary drinks, tomato-based sauces, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and berries, can also stain our teeth. Many of us drink more than one cup of coffee a day, further exposing our teeth to staining agents.
How long does it take for coffee to stain your teeth?
There’s no definitive timeline for when stains will appear. The longer you allow coffee or any other pigmented substances to linger on the surface of your teeth, the higher the chance of stains setting in. However, the good news is that tooth discoloration is not permanent.
Is coffee bad for oral health?
While coffee is neither inherently good nor bad for oral health, it’s important to be aware of its downsides. For instance, caffeine in coffee can slow down saliva production, which is our mouth’s most effective natural means of cleaning. This can also lead to bad breath. Drinking water after a cup of coffee can help stimulate saliva production once again.
Coffee’s acidity can also affect enamel health, but this is easily remedied by selecting a low acid coffee. Additionally, the sugar and creamer that many of us add to our coffee can contribute to plaque build-up on teeth. It’s well-known that sugar erodes enamel, so drinking black coffee is typically the best option.
On the bright side, coffee can have some benefits for oral health. Studies have found that coffee provides antibacterial properties that may help prevent cavity formation. It has also been linked to a reduced risk of mortality due to some forms of oral cancer.
Getting Rid of Coffee Stains
If your teeth have been stained by coffee, there are ways to remove these stains. Whitening treatments can help undo tooth discoloration, whether it’s at the extrinsic (outer) or intrinsic (inner) levels. Over-the-counter whitening strips are an affordable and accessible option. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment with a dentist or orthodontist for a professional whitening session.
After any whitening treatment, it’s important to avoid deeply colored foods and drinks for a short while. The pores of your enamel will be more open and susceptible to stains immediately after the treatment. Wait about 1-3 days before indulging in your favorite treats with discoloring agents.
Will my teeth get whiter if I stop drinking coffee?
If you stop drinking coffee, your teeth could possibly regain some of their former whiteness. However, it’s important to note that coffee is not the sole contributor to tooth discoloration. Factors such as age, genetics, and other dietary habits can also play a role. The best ways to proactively cultivate a brighter smile are to maintain good oral hygiene and invest in a whitening treatment.
Preventing Coffee Stains
The bad news is that coffee can stain teeth, but the good news is that there are preventative measures you can take to protect your pearly whites. Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss daily
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings
These simple but effective tasks can help prevent stains. Additionally, you can consider drinking coffee in one sitting to avoid continual exposure to staining elements. Rinse your mouth with mouthwash or water after consuming coffee, and consider using a straw to drink beverages that tend to stain. Brushing with baking soda or hydrogen peroxide can also help whiten your teeth. Using whitening toothpaste and investing in an electric toothbrush for more thorough cleaning are other options. Chewing sugar-free gum after coffee consumption and snacking on foods like strawberries, carrots, celery, or cucumbers that have natural whitening properties can also be beneficial.
By following these tips, you can not only prevent tooth discoloration but also improve your overall oral hygiene. Remember, your smile is your greatest asset, so take care of it!
Sources:
- The Importance of Tooth Enamel
- NCA releases 2020 National Coffee Data Trends, the “Atlas of American Coffee”
- Why Does Coffee Cause Bad Breath? | Stinky Breath | Live Science
- Top 9 Foods That Damage Your Teeth – American Dental Association
- Coffee May Help Prevent Cavities – ScienceDaily
- Caffeinated Coffee Linked to Lower Risk of Some Oral Cancers
- Top 9 Foods That Damage Your Teeth – American Dental Association
- Foods That Whiten Teeth Naturally, Home Remedies Work