Are you one of those people who thinks about coffee as soon as you wake up? Do you drink coffee all day and even at night? Does your barista know you by name? Whether you drink it hot or iced, coffee is a delicious way to start or end your day, but it can wreak havoc on your teeth, causing discoloration.
So, if you love coffee, how can you keep your smile as white as possible while still enjoying this delightful beverage? Keep reading to learn more.
7 Dental Tips for Coffee Lovers
You may notice your teeth becoming yellowed or discolored if you regularly drink coffee. That’s because coffee contains tannins, which cause color compounds to stick to your teeth, leading to stains.
Following these tips can keep your smile looking its best:
- Use milk — Adding milk to your coffee dilutes its strength. This can reduce its ability to stain your teeth.
- Brush afterward — Brushing your teeth after drinking coffee can fight stains. If you can’t brush right away, rinse your mouth with water or use mouthwash.
- Use a straw — Drinking coffee from a straw may be unconventional, but it will minimize the coffee’s contact with your teeth.
- Hydrate with water—Alternating sips of coffee with sips of water can wash away the coffee's staining compounds.
- Consider whitening — Ask our dental team about professional teeth whitening to remove the stains coffee causes.
- Practice moderation — Although it may be difficult, reducing the amount of coffee you drink can decrease tooth stains and keep your smile looking its best.
- Visit your dentist — It’s essential to visit your Raleigh dentist every six months for a checkup and dental cleaning. These regular visits allow us to assess your oral health and detect any issues before they worsen.
Need a Dentist in Raleigh, NC?
We'd love to speak to you if you’re looking for quality dental care in Raleigh or the surrounding area! At Cameron Village Dentistry, we want you to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you drink coffee or not, our dental team would be happy to welcome you.
Contact us at (919) 821-2454 to schedule a consultation or appointment.