Sugar and acid in coffee can erode tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities. It is advisable to drink plenty of water or brush your teeth after consuming coffee.
Many people drink coffee very quickly, while others prefer to savor a delicious cup over 1-2 hours. However, Life Savvy reports that according to dental experts, the habit of slowly sipping coffee can damage tooth enamel and lead to cavities.
Dentist Dr. Suhail Mohiuddin has posted a video explaining that many of his patients suffer from cavities due to improper coffee drinking habits. Coffee can lower the pH level in the mouth below 5.5. If this condition persists for more than 30 minutes, tooth enamel will begin to erode.
The duration of your coffee consumption significantly impacts oral health. (Photo: Healthline).
Well+Good spoke with several dental experts to explore this issue.
The Impact of Coffee on Teeth
Dr. Michael Wei shared: “Sipping coffee over several hours can harm teeth because the sugar and acid in this beverage can linger in the mouth longer, eroding tooth enamel and increasing the risk of cavities.”
Many people experience cavities and tooth discoloration due to sipping coffee.
Tina Saw, founder of Oral Genome, notes that coffee stains teeth due to its dark color and high tannin content.
Dentist Richard M. Lipari from Westchester, New York, states, “Most people drink coffee with milk, sugar, and/or syrup. These components can also contribute to cavities.”
Ideal Duration for Drinking Coffee
Dr. Wei recommends that the best practice is to consume coffee within 5-10 minutes. However, this may also depend on an individual’s stomach, as drinking coffee too quickly can cause discomfort.
How to Protect Oral Health After Drinking Coffee
If you cannot finish your coffee in 10 minutes, experts from Valley Dentists of Belchertown advise brushing your teeth after finishing your coffee to remove residual sugar and acid. However, you should wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to allow saliva to neutralize the acid in the mouth, preventing damage to weakened enamel.
If brushing is not an option, rinsing your mouth with water is a good alternative. Throughout your coffee enjoyment, do not forget to drink plenty of water. According to expert Wei, water can help wash away leftover coffee on teeth and maintain dental health.
Experts recommend limiting added sugar, cream, or syrup in coffee. (Photo: Unsplash).
Another way to keep teeth healthy is to reduce the amount of sugar in coffee. Dr. Lipari advises: “If you drink coffee with added sugar or syrup, you should not sip it throughout the day. Minimize the time sugar is in contact with your teeth.”
Additionally, eating crunchy vegetables such as carrots can help reduce the risk of tooth discoloration.
