Coffee, one of the most beloved drinks in the world, is a part of many morning routines. The uplifting and invigorating effects of caffeine boost many people’s energy, improving their daily productivity. But if you have dentures, can you still take pleasure from this beverage?
According to the American Dental Association, those with dentures can still partake in the magic of coffee and enjoy it without jeopardizing their teeth replacement. In fact, a hot cup of coffee can even positively influence the health of your oral cavity.
When it comes to dentures and coffee, moderation is key. Your dentures, just like your natural teeth, may be induced to yellowing due to contact with the brown, caffeine dye. This yellowing is caused by staining and can be avoided by drinking with a straw and washing your dentures every night before putting them in the Soak with a gentle dishwashing liquid.
That being said, everyone’s body is different, so it is wise to consult with your prosthodontist before committing to any specific dental care routine. They will be able to assess your specific needs with complete confidence.
One of the main concern that denture wearers have is the temperature of their beverage. Since your dentures rest on the same gum surfaces that bear your natural teeth, too hot a drink can cause pain and damage. The best way to avoid this issue is to wait for a few minutes for the drink to cool off.
It is also important to be aware of your consumption habit if you have dentures. Eating or drinking foods that are either too hot or too cold may cause discomfort to your dentures as well as your gums. If you feel any pain, try to adjust your consumption patterns.
The real issue with coffee for denture wearers lies in the acidity of the beverage. The acidic properties of coffee can actually put your dentures in danger. Acids are destructive to denture materials. So not only could coffee erode the material, it can also cause bacteria to accumulate inside the dentures. Therefore, it is best to avoid any beverages that are highly acidic, or at least rinse your mouth after drinking coffee.
Sticky Drinks
When it comes to drinking coffee and wearing dentures, it is important to take into consideration not just the temperature, but also the stickiness of the beverage. Drinks that are thick or viscous in texture – such as milky coffee, hot chocolate and tea – can stick to the denture material, which can make it difficult to remove the beverage from the denture surface.
To counter such effects, it is necessary to give your dentures a thorough cleaning after drinking. Furthermore, to make sure that the beverage does not cling to the denture surface, it is better to consume your coffee and other drinks in small sips, rather than gulps, and rinse your mouth out afterwards.
Wearing Dentures
Using dentures while drinking coffee can take some adjusting. You may experience difficulty in drinking due to the change in your oral structure. Speak to your prosthodontist and you should be able to get some help in finding comfortable and effective techniques when drinking.
It’s best to use acid-neutral toothpaste and regularly renew your denture adhesive, since both of these may help ease the impact of the acidic properties of coffee on the dentures material. Additionally, try to rinse and brush your dentures daily to ensure better health.
You may have to experiment a bit to find the right balance between your personal preference of temperature and acidity with the efficient denture care. You should also be aware that all beverages – and not just coffee – can bring potential harm to your denture material.
The Benefits of Coffee with Dentures
Despite the potential danger of acidity, coffee can still bring some perks. Coffee has numerous benefits, particularly on oral hygiene. It is known to kill bad breath, while the caffeine kick can help you stay alert and energized. Furthermore, the antioxidants in coffee can help with inflammation and the prevention of cavities.
Therefore, if you are able to drink your coffee in moderation and take necessary precautions, you will be able to enjoy your cup without worries.
Transforming your Oral Cavity
Although you may feel discomfort when wearing dentures due to drinking coffee, having the prosthesis can make a great difference to your oral functionality and aesthetics. Dentures literally transform your oral cavity, improving your bite and your ability to chew, speak and smile confidently. It is a simple yet powerful way to completely upgrade your oral experience.
With proper and balanced care, you can enjoy your coffee with dentures and still get to keep your denture health in check. Make sure to take good care when handling your gums too, as they tend to be more sensitive with dentures. With a little care and attention, you can certainly enjoy your coffee while keeping your dentures in good shape.
Protecting your Dentures
One of the best ways to protect your dentures is by avoiding certain foods and drinks that can cause wear and tear. This includes chewing gums, candies and carbonated drinks, which can all damage your denture material if you consume them too often. Additionally, when drinking coffee, always wait for a few minutes for the drink to cool down, and keep in mind that acidic beverages should be avoided.
To ensure that your dentures stay in top condition, your regular dental hygiene routine should also include special denture hygiene products such as a cleanser. Denture cleaners are specifically designed to remove bacteria and food particles from your dentures, preventing infection and keeping your prosthesis hygienic.
The Bottom Line
Coffee is a fantastic beverage, especially when you want to perk up your morning mood. However, like with any other product, it is important to know how to handle your dentures properly when drinking coffee. Be aware of the temperature and the acidity found in your beverage, and take good care of your dentures to avoid any possible damage to your teeth replacement.
Remember that with dentures, moderation is key. An occasional cup should not cause any significant harm, as long as it is not abused. Taken in combination with proper dental hygiene, your dentures will stay protected for years to come and you can still enjoy one of life’s sweetest pleasures.
