Coffee is an essential morning fuel for so many people, but it can put a damper on your smile. Coffee contains tannins, which are acidic organic compounds that prematurely wear down enamel. That's why coffee drinkers must prioritize teeth whitening, both at dental clinics and while enjoying their favorite beverage. Here are a few smart ways to limit the damaging effects of coffee on your smile. 

How Can Coffee Lovers Maintain a Bright Smile?

1. Drink the Beverage Through a Straw

Using a straw to drink coffee prevents the liquid from having prolonged contact with your teeth. While there will still be minimal exposure to your enamel as you sip, it will be far less than if you drank the coffee without a straw. Switching to iced coffee or cold brew can also help facilitate your new habit, since straws are commonplace with these beverages. 

2. Rinse With Water After Drinking

Whether you drink your coffee the regular way or use a straw, rinsing with water afterward is highly beneficial. Water helps wash away the damaging acids before they can do major harm to tooth enamel. You can also follow up with a fluoride mouthwash, which freshens the breath and fortifies your teeth from the inside out. Make rinsing a daily habit for the best defense against stains. 

3. Don't Add Creamer or Sugar

Adding creamer to your cup won't do much to reduce the acidity level of the brew. It will introduce sugar into the mix, which oral bacteria thrive on. As bacteria feed on sugars, they release acids that will accelerate the rate of enamel loss you're experiencing. If you prefer your coffee to be sweet, use artificial sweeteners containing xylitol. Xylitol actually reduces the growth of cavity-causing bacteria for improved oral health. 

As for existing coffee stains, a teeth whitening session can restore your smile's bright, healthy appearance. That's precisely what Smile Solutions Dental Group offers, in addition to many other essential dental treatments. Serving patients throughout Hialeah and the rest of South Florida since 2013, this clinic offers preventative, restorative, and cosmetic treatments. They also make sure patients experience a relaxed and soothing office visit, no matter what type of treatment they receive. Visit the website to learn more about their services, or call (305) 640-5501 to schedule a website for yourself or a loved one today.