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Coffee feels like an essential part of the day – it helps us wake up in the morning and feel ready to take on the day. Daily coffee drinking may be suitable for your emotional and physical health, but this habit can affect your mouth, teeth, and gums.  

If you are a habitual coffee drinker, it would help if you underwent regular cleanings and exams with your West Miami Dentist to protect your smile.  

Can Coffee Negatively Affect your Smile?

Coffee may be the nectar of the gods, but it is also the enemy of a white smile. Coffee stains your teeth because of molecules called tannin. You can brush your teeth or drink water to remove most of the tannins, but they also leave behind slight discoloration. 

Other Issues Caused by Coffee

Many people say, “whatever, still worth it.” Of all the things you can do to help brighten your smile, giving up coffee doesn’t have to be the habit you quit. Stick to one or two cups of coffee (or tea) daily and brush and floss regularly to avoid severe staining. Some other issues that come from coffee include: 

Tooth Stains

Drinking multiple cups every day can make your teeth severely discolored and stained. 

Enamel Erosion

Coffee doesn’t just affect the color of your teeth. Excessive consumption of this beverage can also erode the tooth enamel. The various acids in coffee can eat through and erode your enamel, allowing food particles and bacteria to seep into the teeth. 

Dry Mouth

Unfortunately, drinking a lot of caffeinated coffee will dry out the mouth, decreasing the saliva production necessary for oral health. Saliva is an essential part of your oral hygiene. It keeps your mouth moist and helps rinse food particles and bacteria.  

Stress-Related Dental Disorders

Drinking a lot of coffee can stimulate your nervous system, making you feel stress and anxiety. 

Some of the oral conditions caused by stress are jaw issues, poor oral hygiene, and sores. These can be brought on by stress. Coffee works by blocking the effects of adenosine, a brain chemical that makes you feel tired. It is known for increasing alertness and energy. Drinking a lot of coffee can stimulate your nervous system. 

Contact Your West Miami Dentist at LP Dental & Cosmetic

Protect your smile by brushing, drinking plenty of water, and never skipping your dental checkup with your West Miami dentist. If you’re still unhappy with the brightness of your teeth, book an appointment. Get in touch today!