Health Benefits
Coffee can offer various health benefits such as its ability to reduce the risk of developing cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and Type 2 diabetes; however, it can also stain your teeth drastically. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to ensure that you can still enjoy the pleasures of coffee without compromising your teeth’s whiteness. By following the tips below, you can be sure to keep your teeth looking pearly white and keep your overall oral health in great shape.
Essential Steps
First, make sure you are brushing your teeth properly after drinking coffee. It’s best to brush within 30 minutes of drinking coffee as this will help to reduce the build-up of stains and prevent them from setting in. When you brush, use a soft bristled toothbrush and gently brush the teeth in a circular motion for two minutes, focusing on those areas which are especially prone to staining, such as the edges and corners of your mouth. A fluoride toothpaste will help to strengthen your enamel, which can also reduce the risk of staining. Additionally, it’s also important to pick up flossing, which will remove any food or coffee particles that might be stuck in between the teeth and causing staining.
Sip with Caution
It is also helpful to be mindful about how and when you drink coffee. Sipping slowly can help to reduce the risk of staining as it gives your saliva more time to neutralize the acids in the coffee, which can lead to staining. Additionally, if you’re feeling especially mindful during coffee drinking moments, remember that sipping from a straw can help since the coffee bypasses contact with your teeth. You might also consider opting for “clear coffee,” which contains none of the staining pigments and will have no affect whatsoever on your teeth.
Strawberries and Baking Soda
Surprisingly, it’s been proven that mashing up a strawberry, adding some baking soda and brushing with the paste on can help to whiten your teeth naturally. Strawberries are packed full of antioxidants that act as powerful natural whiteners. This could be a great option if you want to reduce the risk of staining and still enjoy the occasional cup of coffee.
Chewing Gum and Specialized Toothpastes
Chewing sugar-free gum can be a great way to stimulate saliva production, which can help to eliminate coffee and other staining food particles. Additionally, it’s worth investing in some specialized whitening toothpaste, such as ones containing hydrogen peroxide, that can help to whiten the teeth quickly, especially if you don’t want to reduce your coffee consumption. This type of toothpaste should be used as part of your daily regime and can help to keep your teeth looking healthy, white, and bright.
Dental Treatments for Intensive Whitening
If all else fails, your dentist can provide the help and expertise needed to get the results you desire. Professional dental treatments are available such as teeth whitening and sandblasting, but they do come at a cost. This should only be done if you have tried all other methods, as it can be costly but effective. Speak with your dentist to find out the best option for you.
Drink Fluids Other than Coffee
Finally, it’s always good to get into the habit of drinking other beverages between your cups of coffee. Water, for example, can be a great choice since it helps to remove any build-up of staining food particles from the teeth; this should be done regardless of the drinks you consume. Drinking milk or green tea is another alternative, as these can also help to strengthen your teeth and make them less likely to be stained.
Whitening Strips
Whitening strips can also be an effective way to maintain your teeth’s whiteness, but it is recommended to speak with your dentist before undertaking any whitening process. Pre-made whitening strips are available in many pharmacies, but they can be quite expensive. Additionally, they may not be as effective as a professional whitening treatment. For the best results, it is recommended to use the whitening strips in combination with other whitening methods.
Dietary Changes
Making some dietary changes can also be beneficial for keeping your teeth looking bright and white. Eating more fruits and vegetables that are high in product is important, as this can help to promote oral health and prevent staining from occurring. Additionally, cutting back on sugary and acidic foods can reduce the risk of staining and decay.
Regular Check-Ups
It is advised to have regular check-ups with a dentist to make sure that your teeth are kept healthy and clean; this will also give them the opportunity to spot any early signs of staining and decay. Your dentist can also provide you with professional advice and make sure that your teeth are kept in the best condition.
In Summary
Staining the teeth is a common problem for coffee drinkers, but there are some steps that you can take to prevent it from occurring. Brushing and flossing regularly are essential; this should be done after every cup of coffee as it will help to reduce the build-up of staining food particles. Additionally, whitening strips and specialized whitening toothpastes can be effective, but it is highly advised to speak with a dentist before making any decisions. Finally, making some dietary changes such as cutting back on acidic and sugary foods can help, and drinking other fluids between your cups of coffee can also help to remove any staining food particles from your teeth.
