What's the Truth? Does Coffee Really Stain Your Teeth?

What's the Truth? Does Coffee Really Stain Your Teeth?

Almost nobody can give up their morning coffee routine. In fact, most don’t feel human till the day’s first cup of coffee kicks in. However, your choice of morning beverage can take a toll on your teeth and oral health. This post is for you if you (like many others) wonder whether your daily ‘happiness in a cup’ could make your smile less brilliant.
does coffee stain teeth
Does coffee stain teeth?

Caffeine Facts about Teeth Staining

Teeth discoloration is often blamed on coffee, when in truth caffeine in its natural form is a white colored powder that is odorless. The compound when isolated from vegetable sources has nothing to do with staining or teeth damage.
Caffeine dissolves without a trace in liquid beverages. It does not contribute to the color, which is why it cannot be called a ‘chromogen’. This means that drinking decaf will probably not help you maintain the brilliance of your pearly whites. Instead, it is important that you understand the exact causes of teeth stains.

What Causes Teeth Discoloration?

The foremost staining pigments in coffee are called tannin. These are, in effect, the natural defense systems of the coffee plant protecting them from insects and herbivores. Tannin has a bitter flavor which is not liked by most animals and insects. This natural compound finds its way into your java in small quantities, which contributes to the color and flavor.

How is The Teeth Enamel Affected?

Teeth enamel may be the hardest substance present in the human body, but they are no match for chromogens found in coffee. Enamel is useful in protecting other layers on the teeth. However, enamel is not smooth or flat. It contains microscopic ridges and gaps that make it porous.
If food and beverage gets lodged in these gaps, an extrinsic stain would be formed. This is the discoloration of the outermost layer of enamel. If good oral hygiene is not maintained, the pigments would affect other inner layers of the teeth. And could result in a dental emergency.
The stain deepens as you drink more coffee or consume other beverages with chromogens. Intrinsic stains are more difficult to clean as compared to extrinsic stains. In certain cases, if you do not get a whitening procedure done, the intrinsic stain may cause permanent yellowing as well.

How Can You Avoid a ‘Coffee Smile’?

Probably, the best way to avoid teeth discoloration is to give up coffee and other teeth staining beverages completely. However, this may not be possible for people who cannot go through their day without coffee breaks.
Fortunately, there are steps that can save you from teeth stains from your coffee. For instance, you should consider drinking coffee at specific intervals instead of sipping it throughout the day. This way you can rinse your mouth whenever you are done finishing your cup of coffee. You could also use whitening gels and toothpastes. However, the best way to prevent a coffee smile is to get in touch with your dentist.
Location: Roswell, GA 30075, USA

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