You love your coffee. A good cup of joe can wake you in the morning and be the perfect end to a delicious evening meal. You appreciate coffee's health benefits, like lowering your risk of diabetes. You probably don't want to think about the effects of coffee on your teeth and fear your dentist will advise that the only way to avoid the issues is to quit your favorite beverage. You shouldn't have to give up this delicious and beneficial drink if you follow these tips for dental care. 

How to Care for Teeth When You Drink Coffee

1. Removing Coffee Stains

One of the sad effects of coffee drinking is stained teeth, but you don't have to live with teeth discoloration or give up one of your favorite beverages. Dentists can often get rid of coffee stains during regular teeth cleaning visits or by applying a whitening treatment. Take home cleaning to the next level between your dental appointments by brushing with toothpaste with higher amounts of abrasives, gentle enough for your teeth but strong on stains. Baking soda used twice a month can also help with whitening, and dentists suggest switching from a manual toothbrush to an electronic one can give your brushing an added boost.

Including healthy foods as part of your daily diet, like raw fruits and vegetables, may also help with stain removal. The natural fibers can clean teeth and break down bacteria. 

2. Preventing Coffee Stains

Before your teeth become coffee-stained, you can take steps to prevent discoloration. When you drink your coffee, it's better to limit the creamer and sugar that speed up the growth of bacteria that discolors your teeth. And while you may enjoy savoring your coffee by taking time to finish your cup, it is better to drink in one sitting to prevent bacteria buildup. When you enjoy coffee as a cold beverage, dentists recommend using a straw to reduce the risk of teeth staining.

Whether enjoying coffee hot or cold, chase it with a drink of water to rinse your mouth and teeth from the acidity. After rinsing, wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Coffee's acids weaken tooth enamel and leave your teeth susceptible to staining. 

3. Changing Drink Choices to Limit Stains  

You don't have to stop drinking coffee, but by cutting back on a few cups a day, the lower exposure will help prevent staining. You can replace a cup or two of coffee with drinks that are gentler on your teeth.

When you need a teeth cleaning or cosmetic dentistry, you want a dentist who will provide compassionate and affordable care. Katz Family Dentistry in Webster, NY, has been brightening smiles for almost 50 years. Led by Dr. Jeffery R. Katz, this team uses the latest treatments and technology to perform teeth cleanings, root canals, dental bridge placement, and other general and cosmetic procedures. For more information on their services, visit their website or call (585) 671-2340 to schedule an appointment.