If you’re like most people, you start your day with a nice hot cup of coffee. While this popular beverage is good for a pick-me-up, it can do quite a number on your teeth according to most dentists. With October 1st designated as International Coffee Day, it’s a good time to learn about the effect coffee can have on your teeth and what you can do to stop it.

What Coffee Can Do to Your Teeth

Tooth enamel is porous, although it doesn’t necessarily appear that way to the naked eye. As a result, the foods you eat and the liquids you drink can easily penetrate your teeth, which is how staining occurs.

Coffee is particularly troublesome since it’s a darker liquid. It also contains tannins, an organic compound that is also found in wines and tea. Tannins makes coffee’s already dark pigment even more damaging since it binds to teeth. After years of coffee drinking, your teeth may turn a yellowish hue, thereby greatly diminishing your smile.

How You Can Prevent Stains From Occurring

The best course of action is to forgo coffee altogether, but if you’re not ready to take that plunge, there are other steps you can take. After drinking your morning cup of coffee, brush and rinse your mouth afterward. Dentists also recommend going easy on the cream and sugar, as these can cause decay.

If you’re concerned about stains that have already occurred, keeping up with regular teeth cleanings is highly recommended. While there, you can speak to your dentist about teeth whitening, which can sometimes have a dramatic effect on your smile. Your dental team can also offer tips for at-home care, such as proper brushing and flossing techniques.

If you’re a confirmed coffee addict and concerned about stains developing, Anchorage Dental Center is here to help. Dentist James Driscoll and the rest of his caring team provide effective dental treatments, ranging from routine exams to procedures aimed at restoring your smile to its former luster. Their passion for oral health is evident in all they do, which is why so many patients in Anchorage look to their clinic for dental care. If you’d like to schedule an appointment for you or a member of your family, feel free to call (907) 278-2521 today. You can also visit the website to learn more about the services offered.