Ah, the staple of many morning and afternoon routines: coffee and tea. Both provide a bit of a boost to help us move through our days with ease and enjoyment. But do you know what these beverages may be doing to your smile? Studies suggest that regular consumption of coffee and tea can discolor teeth, weaken enamel, and lead to higher sensitivity in the long run—much similar to smoking or other habits guilty of staining teeth. Don’t worry though—we have some tips for how you can still enjoy your warm cup each morning or afternoon without wreaking havoc on those pearly whites! Read on as we explore the unexpected consequences of sipping all too often on these beloved drinks.

Coffee and Your Teeth

The caffeine content of coffee can cause dehydration, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay. What’s more, the dark color of coffee can be a major culprit in causing stains on teeth. To properly protect your teeth from regular sipping on cups of java, try drinking through a straw or quickly rinsing your mouth with water after each cup. Or, if you’d like to reduce your risk of staining and the effects of acidic erosion, opt for a lighter-colored roast and/or a blend that contains low acidity levels.

Tea Time

Unlike coffee, tea does not promote dehydration as much as coffee; however, it still has the potential to cause discoloration. In order to avoid staining from regular tea drinking, try adding a bit of milk or cream to your cup. This will neutralize the tannins in your beverage and help limit any discoloration over time. Additionally, take breaks between sipping on cups of tea and be sure to swish with water afterward.

Some Final Tips

In addition to the previously mentioned habits, try using a straw when drinking coffee and tea—this will help reduce contact between your teeth and the beverage. If you’re really worried about staining or tooth decay, consider cutting back on the amount of coffee or tea that you consume each day—or try replacing it with other drinks such as water or juice. Finally, take the time to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. 

The bottom line is that drinking coffee and tea can be beneficial in moderation; however, overconsumption can have detrimental effects on your teeth—so sip with caution! Don’t forget to take into consideration other potential side effects as well, such as increased heart rate, anxiety, or insomnia. While the occasional cup won’t cause serious harm, it’s important to pay attention to your body’s response and practice moderation. So next time you reach for a cup of coffee or tea, be sure to remember the potential risks involved.

Are you ready to take the next step toward brightening your smile? Herndon Dental Arts offers Philips ZOOM!® Teeth Whitening that can be completed in just one visit. This professional whitening treatment is designed to remove years of stains and leave you with a gorgeous, white smile that will make you feel confident and radiant. Contact Herndon Dental Arts today and find out how they can help you get the beautiful, white teeth you’ve been waiting for!