Drinking coffee and keeping white teeth is a pretty tough balance to strike. Most coffee lovers simply accept the fact that coffee causes discoloration of enamel, but thankfully there’s no need to give up your morning cup of joe in order to keep your smile pearly white. With some diligence and lifestyle tweaks, you can enjoy your coffee while still keeping your teeth looking good.
Here’s what you’ll need to know to keep your teeth white while still drinking coffee.
1. Brush Twice a Day
Keeping your teeth white starts with a good brushing routine. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, focusing especially on the areas where coffee pooled up. Brushing in the morning and then after each cup of coffee throughout the day will help keep coffee from staining your teeth.
2. Consider Using Straws
The acid in coffee is one of the culprits that contributes to enamel erosion, which can lead to discoloration. To decrease the acidity of the coffee, try using a straw when drinking. This way, the acid in your coffee won’t pool around your teeth and will be less likely to cause discoloration.
3. Use a Tooth Whitening Toothpaste
If you can’t seem to get your teeth white enough, consider investing in a good tooth whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste works to remove any surface stains that have been caused by coffee. It doesn’t work overnight, but with consistency and patience, you should get your teeth looking whiter.
4. Add Milk to Your Coffee
Adding some kind of dairy — like milk or cream — to your coffee helps to balance out the acidity and lessen the chance of staining. You don’t have to add a ton of milk; a splash will do, just enough to make your coffee a bit creamier.
5. Upgrade Your Mug
A dark-colored mug can make your coffee a bit more prone to stains, so consider upgrading to a white mug. Also, steer clear of mugs with painted designs — as the paint can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
6. Rely on Professional Cleanings
No matter how careful you are with your morning cup of coffee, there’s a chance that you’ll still wind up with some enamel discoloration. But, don’t worry — professional cleanings are always an option. These types of cleanings are often done twice a year and help to lift any stains that have formed on your teeth. Professional cleanings can restore your teeth, making them look brighter and whiter.
7. Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is the last key for keeping your teeth white while drinking coffee. Drinking plenty of water helps to rinse away the acids and sugars that can cause discoloration. After drinking coffee or any sugary or acidic beverage, swish some water around in your mouth to help reduce the chances of staining.
8. Limit Your Coffee Intake
The best way to keep your smile white? Cut down on your coffee intake. Drinking not just coffee, but any sugary or acidic beverage, should be kept to a minimum if you’re looking to keep your teeth looking nice and white. So, opt for water over coffee or other sugary beverages whenever you can.
How to Drink Coffee Without Tainting Your Teeth with Years of Build-Up
Years of drinking coffee (or any acidic beverages) without taking proper care of your teeth can lead to unfortunate build-up on the tooth enamel. As a result, the surface of your teeth will become discoloured and you won’t be able to bring back that teeth’s white luster. To avoid this, the most important thing is to think of how the enamel of your teeth is influenced by your coffee.
When you drink coffee, it’s always a good idea to use a straw to reduce the amount of time the coffee has contact with your teeth. This way, the acidity won’t have as much time to wear away the enamel of your teeth. Using milk or cream in your coffee also helps to offset the acidity, so that’s something to keep in mind when planning your coffee routine.
Clean Your Teeth Often
It’s also important to make sure you’re cleaning your teeth often, especially after drinking coffee. Twice a day at minimum, and it’s best to use a toothpaste with additives which can help to debase the staining compounds which coffee deposits on your teeth. One way to think about it is this: every day that you go without brushing is one day closer to a full set of coffee-stained teeth.
Consult Professionals
Finally, it’s a good idea to consult a professional soon after starting to notice the discoloration of your teeth. This is important because the earlier you notice and take action on the discoloration, the more likely it is to be reversed. Professional cleanings are able to remove deeply set stains from the tooth, so it’s always best to pay them a visit first.
How to Create a Balanced Routine for White Teeth and Coffee Intake
Bridging the gap between coffee addiction and tooth damage is difficult, but it’s not impossible. To reduce the amount of staining caused by coffee, you can start by cutting down on your intake. Then, when you do need that second cup, make sure to sip with a straw and rinse your mouth out with water afterwards. Don’t forget to brush twice a day with a toothpaste that can help reduce the visibility of staining, like one with baking soda. Finally, and most importantly, you’ll want to pay your dentist a visit and begin an oral health maintenance program.
Should You Use At-Home Whitening Solutions?
At-home whitening solutions are an attractive option for those looking to save time and money. However, it’s important to remember that the effectiveness of these solutions can’t match professional treatments. In addition, at-home whitening products are formulated for general use, and not for people with sensitive gums or unhealthy teeth. Therefore, it’s important to consult a professional before jumping into any kind of at-home whitening solutions.
Non-Coffee Alternatives for Stained Teeth
There is a bevvy of other beverage options for those looking to avoid teeth staining. Tea, for instance, contains antioxidants and is generally less acidic than coffee. In addition, if you can handle the taste, herbal tea is a great option as it has anti-inflammatory agents. Another great alternative is to drink water, which helps to keep your teeth healthy and clean.
The Side Effects of Coffee
Coffee can be good for more than just keeping you alert and energized. It can also contain antioxidants and may even reduce the risk of certain diseases. However, when coffee is consumed without proper care, it can also increase your risk for enamel wear. That’s why it’s important to pay close attention to how your coffee consumption is affecting your teeth.
Keeping Up With Your Cleaning Routine is Key
Another good idea is to create a tooth-friendly cleaning routine. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once. It’s also a good idea to finish with a fluoride-based rinse. Keep up with regular dentist appointments, and have your teeth professionally cleaned at least once a year to help keep your teeth white.
