Coffee and Teeth
Drinking coffee is a staple part of many people’s daily routine, from college students who rely on it to get through the day to working professionals who turn to it for an afternoon pick-me-up. But one of the downsides of drinking coffee is that it can stain teeth. As a result, many coffee drinkers are left with tooth discoloration and yellowing that contributes to an overall dull smile. Not to worry, though – with a few easy tweaks, coffee drinkers can even use their daily cup of joe to whiten their teeth.
It may sound counterintuitive, but coffee can actually help to whiten teeth. It all comes down to the coffee beans themselves. Arabica and Robusta coffee beans are naturally high in antioxidants, which help to protect teeth from staining and discoloration. In addition, coffee can help to fight against cavities, reduce inflammation in the gums, and even freshen your breath – all of which can lead to a brighter, healthier smile.
Adding Milk
One of the best ways to maximize the whitening effects of your morning coffee is to add a splash of milk. Milk contains lactic acid, which helps to break down tannins in coffee and reduce the likelihood of stains. This is especially true for soy, almond, and coconut milks, which not only contain lactic acid, but often boast a higher fat content than cow’s milk.
If you’re not a fan of adding milk to your coffee, you can also try using whitening strips that are designed to help lessen tooth discoloration and yellowing. Simply apply the strips once or twice a week to help remove any stubborn stains.
Opt For Iced Coffee
Another way to minimize the staining effects of coffee is to opt for an iced coffee instead of a warm cup of brew. Heat can cause staining molecules to stick to teeth more easily, so, by going the cold route, you’re less likely to experience discoloration. Plus, an iced coffee can be an even more refreshing way to start your day.
In addition to swapping out hot coffee for iced, you can also rinse your mouth with water after drinking coffee. This will help to remove some of the staining molecules from the surface of your teeth and prevent discoloration in the long run.
Straw for Best Results
The best way to maximize the effects of an iced coffee on your teeth is to drink it through a straw. By using a straw, you’re limiting the amount of coffee that actually touches your teeth. Plus, it allows you to avoid having to rinse after drinking. Not only is this a great way to help prevent coffee stains, but it’s also a great excuse to enjoy a little coffee-shop treat.
At the end of the day, drinking coffee and whitening your teeth don’t have to be incompatible. With a few simple tweaks to your morning routine, you can enjoy your coffee and reap the whitening benefits of the drink itself.
Enhance with Whitening Toothpaste
For those looking to enhance the whitening effects of coffee, whitening toothpaste can be a great option. Many whitening toothpastes contain natural ingredients that can help to lighten discoloration without being harsh on the teeth. Just make sure to seek out a toothpaste that is dentist recommended before using it.
In addition to using whitening toothpaste, there are also DIY tooth whitening remedies you can try at home. One popular remedy involves swishing a mixture of baking soda and 3% hydrogen peroxide into your mouth a few times a week. It’s important to note, though, that this remedy should only be used sparingly and as advised by your dentist – baking soda is highly abrasive and can cause damage to the enamel of your teeth if used excessively.
Boost with Natural Fruit Acids
The natural fruit acids in certain foods and fruits can help to reduce the staining effects of coffee by attacking the staining molecules that stick to the surface of teeth. Apples, strawberries, grapes, and oranges are all great options for helping to counteract coffee stains. Just be sure to rinse your mouth with water after eating these fruits – the natural acidity in them can be corrosive if left on the teeth for too long.
Boost with Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is one of the newest teeth whitening trends and can make a great addition to a coffee-centered whitening routine. Activated charcoal is highly absorbent, which means that it can easily absorb any staining molecules in coffee. Just add a teaspoon or two of activated charcoal to your morning coffee and enjoy the whitening effects as you sip.
It’s important to note, though, that activated charcoal can be very abrasive on teeth, so it’s best to limit usage to a few times a week rather than daily. It’s also a good idea to consume it with milk or water to prevent any staining on the teeth.
Drink with a Straw
If you’re looking for a convenient, low-maintenance way to drink your coffee and help to whiten your teeth at the same time, consider using a straw. Straws are great for limiting the amount of coffee that comes into contact with your teeth, and they can also help to keep your teeth from turning yellow. Just make sure to rinse your mouth with water after each sip to help flush away any staining molecules and protect your teeth from discoloration.
Hopefully by following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a bright smile while still partaking in your daily cup of joe. With just a few small changes to your morning routine, you can enjoy the taste of coffee and still protect your teeth at the same time.
