Coffee consumption is on the rise with most of us enjoying one to two cups of coffee a day to start the day or keep us alert and focused. Many coffee drinkers have the same question: Is it better to brush your teeth before or after drinking coffee?
The answer to this question is not simple and depends on a variety of factors, including personal preference and oral health. Below, we dive deeper into the question to explore the pros and cons of both and offer some expert tips so you can decide which option works best for you.
What Does Science Say?
Research has shown that drinking coffee or other dark drinks can cause serious discolouration on teeth and can stunt the growth and repair of enamel. Using a bleaching-powder paste and brushing after drinking coffee are both advisable to reduce the risk of tooth discoloration. Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste before drinking coffee can help protect the teeth from the acidity in coffee and the sugars in coffee creamer and sweeteners.
Brushing Before Drinking Coffee
Many people believe that brushing their teeth before drinking coffee is the best way to keep their teeth healthy. Brushing your teeth before drinking coffee is beneficial in a number of ways. Firstly, it helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities and other oral health issues. Secondly, it can help to minimize the amount of coffee that gets trapped in your teeth, making it easier to remove. Finally, brushing beforehand helps to neutralize the acidity in coffee and protect the teeth from staining and discoloration.
Brushing After Drinking Coffee
On the flip side, some people prefer to brush their teeth after drinking coffee. Brushing afterwards can help to remove any stubborn coffee stains that may have been left behind after drinking the coffee. It can also help to reduce bad breath and the amount of acidity in your mouth. The downside, however, is that brushing after drinking coffee may not be as effective at removing plaque as brushing beforehand.
Consult Your Dentist
If you’re still not sure whether you should brush before or after drinking coffee, the best advice is to consult with your dentist. Your dentist can determine which option is best for your oral health based on your individual needs and can also advise you on other ways to maintain good oral hygiene, such as flossing and mouthwash.
The Bottom Line
Brushing your teeth before or after drinking coffee is largely a matter of personal preference. However, brushing before drinking is often the best option to protect your teeth from staining and discoloration while brushing after can help to remove any stubborn stains. Be sure to consult your dentist to determine which option will work best for you.
Storing Coffee in the Fridge?
Most people prefer to store their coffee in the refrigerator, but is this really a good idea? It depends on the type of coffee you are drinking. Generally speaking, dark-roast coffees are best stored in a cool, dry place, while light-roast coffees such as espresso or cold breware best stored in the refrigerator to preserve their flavor and prevent them from going stale. Refrigerating coffee can also help to reduce the amount of acidity in your cup of joe, making it easier on your teeth.
Coffee Alternatives
If you’re not a fan of the taste of coffee or don’t want to risk staining your teeth, there are many alternatives available. Teas, energy drinks, smoothies and even sparkling waters can provide a caffeine boost while still being healthy and delicious. Of course, it’s important to remember that caffeine is a stimulant and can have powerful effects on the body, so it’s best to consult with your doctor before starting any new caffeinated habit.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
In addition to brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding sugary drinks and acidic foods, there are some other foods and drinks that you should avoid if you want to keep your teeth white and healthy. These include sugary soft drinks, sports drinks, and acidic foods such as lemons and limes. These can be damaging to your teeth, so try to limit your consumption or use a straw when drinking and always brush afterwards to minimize the damage.
The Benefits of Coffee
Despite the risks, coffee does have some health benefits, especially for those who drink it in moderation. Coffee can help boost your energy levels and help you focus and stay alert. It can also improve your mood and help you to stay hydrated. Remember, however, that like all things in life, moderation is key. Too much coffee can have negative health effects, so listen to your body and only drink enough to get the benefits without any of the negative side effects.
