So you couldn’t imagine your day without at least one cup of joe to get you through the morning. But you’ve read somewhere that black coffee is really bad for your teeth.
Is that true? Or is it just the tea industry trying to scare you into throwing away your beans and switching to something milder?
Let’s break this down.
Yes, Black Coffee Can Weaken the Tooth’s Enamel
There is some truth to this idea. Black coffee is an acidic drink, with a pH of around 5. Over time, drinking highly acidic drinks can weaken the outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel, and wear them down.
High acidity also helps create the perfect environment for the harmful bacteria found in the mouth to multiply. More bacteria means higher risks for gum disease, cavities, and other health issues.
But the word “can” here is very important. Theoretically, yes, black coffee can affect your oral health because of its acidity. But, if you compare its pH levels to other drinks, you’ll find that it’s not the biggest enemy of your oral health.
Is It Better to Drink Coffee with Milk or Sugar?
Milk and sugar can help lower acidity, but it’s not a healthier option for your teeth. Milky and sweet coffee drinks are full of sugars, which are the bacteria’s favorite source of nutrition.
Drinking these types of beverages routinely increases your risk for decay tremendously. Since most people don’t brush their teeth after having a cup of coffee with milk and sugar.
So if it’s between black coffee and coffee with sugar and milk, most dentists will probably recommend black coffee.
How to Still Enjoy Coffee and Protect Your Teeth?
Apart from its effects on the enamel, black coffee is also one of the major culprits for stained and discolored teeth.
Follow these simple tips to protect your teeth while still enjoying a regular cup of joe:
- Brush your teeth right after you drink coffee
- If you can’t brush, then drink a tall glass of tap water, or rinse your mouth with water
- Use a whitening toothpaste to reduce coffee stains
- Drink coffee and other acidic or staining beverages through a straw, which limits tooth exposure to the liquids
- Get routine professional dental cleanings and professional teeth whitening, which help remove stubborn stains
How Douglas G. Hope DDS, FAGD Can Help
With regular dental cleanings done by Escondido dentist every six months, you can ensure your teeth are happy and healthy, even if you regularly enjoy a large cup of coffee.
Book a dental cleaning consultation at Douglas G. Hope DDS, FAGD online.
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