Ready to Celebrate National Coffee Day the Healthy Way?

Did you know there’s such a thing as National Coffee Day? It’s true! Sept. 29th is a day dedicated to celebrating java in the U.S. and Canada. When the day comes, coffee drinkers from both countries can toast their cups of joe. If you plan to join the festivities, though, you should take some precautions first. Otherwise, coffee could harm your dental health. Luckily, your Ridgefield dentist can ensure that doesn’t happen. Read on to learn how coffee can damage teeth and what you can do to keep it from doing so.

How Can Coffee Damage Teeth?

In recent years, people have noted that coffee has several health benefits. However, it can actually harm teeth if you aren’t careful.

For one thing, just one daily cup of coffee raises your risk of cavities. The beverage is acidic, after all, so it’ll erode any tooth enamel it reaches. Left untreated, this erosion leads to tooth decay. Worse yet, coffee helps oral bacteria produce their own acids.

The drink also causes tooth discoloration. Since coffee contains tannins, it can stain enamel yellow or brown over time.

What Can I Do to Stop the Damage?

Still, it’s possible to drink coffee this Sept. 29^th while protecting your smile. Just follow the tips below on the day in question:

Go Light on the Coffee

The more exposure coffee has to your teeth, the more harm it’ll cause. That said, don’t sip it throughout the day. Instead, enjoy it at certain times — breakfast, an afternoon break, etc. From there, rinse your mouth with water and brush your teeth.

If you do need an extended sip, though, you can always drink it through a straw.

Have Mouth-Healthy Foods

Whether as part of a meal or as a snack, include some raw veggies and fruits with your coffee. These foods have natural fiber that’ll keep your teeth sparkling.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drink lots of water after having your cup of joe. Doing so will rinse your mouth of residual acids and any sugar you added to the brew. As a result, your teeth and gums will stay healthier, and you’ll avoid dry mouth that could trigger bad breath.

This National Coffee Day, make sure your caffeine fix doesn’t come at the cost of your teeth. Therefore, remember the tips above to enjoy the celebration fully!

About the Author

Dr. Dana C. Jones is a dentist based in Ridgefield, CT, having earned his DDS from the University of Buffalo’s School of Dental Medicine. His specialties are preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including root canal therapy when necessary. Adult and child patients alike can trust him to deliver top-notch results! Dr. Jones currently practices at Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center and is reachable on his website or by phone at (203)-438-8919.