Coffee is one of the world’s favorite beverages, but consuming too much can be harmful to teeth if left without proper precautions. Acidity from some types of coffee can damage enamel and lead to sensitivity or tooth decay while dark pigments in coffee may stain your enamel over time. But you don’t have to give up your beloved cup o’ joe altogether – here are a few ways switching to healthier coffee can protect both oral health and hygiene!

Cutting Out Sugar

Adding sugar to your coffee can increase the risk of tooth decay due to oral bacteria’s love of feeding on it and producing acids which wear away at your enamel, creating the ideal conditions for cavities to form. If sweetness must remain in your cup, opt for an artificial sweetener such as xylitol which has proven just as effective at combatting decay as regular sugar!

Research has demonstrated that black coffee, without milk and sugar added, can actually be good for teeth. According to one study that measured people’s DMFS scores (decayed, missing and filled teeth), those who consumed black coffee had an average score of just 2.9; significantly lower than those who consumed their coffee with milk and sugar added (whose score averaged out to be 5.4).

To better protect your teeth against the acidity of coffee, it’s advisable to drink through a straw in order to limit direct contact between it and your teeth and its tannins, which could otherwise lead to staining on enamel. Doing so also helps reduce how long your enamel remains exposed to these tannins that could result in permanent stains over time.

Cold brewing your coffee can also help to lower its acidity level; cold-brewing creates a lower acidity level than its hot counterpart, so for best results it should be done early in the morning before taking other steps such as eating or drinking anything that might interfere with its development.

If you combine coffee with milk or sugar, it is wise to rinse your mouth after drinking to remove any residue caused by its acidity and tannins – this will help avoid cavities and gum disease as well.

Simply by changing a few aspects of how and what goes into your coffee, you can help to reduce its harmful effects on your teeth and improve oral health. If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to reach out our team at Dupay Dentistry – your Bonita Springs-based dentist! We look forward to ensuring you maintain a bright and healthy smile for life! Please call us now to set up your next appointment – our professional services include teeth whitening, pediatric dental care and root canals among many more.