Most people can’t start their day without that first cup of coffee. According to research, Americans consume over 146 billion cups of coffee annually, but is drinking all that coffee good for you? Your Dallas dentist, Dr. Diep Truong, explains why moderation is key in the coffee debate.
Coffee and Your Oral Health
In addition to providing a rush of energy to wake up and start the day, coffee provides an additional benefit: fighting caner. In a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, researchers produced results showing regular coffee drinks cut their chances of developing oral cancer by over 49%. Janet Hildebrand, an author of the study, said: “Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, and contains a variety of antioxidants, polyphenols, and other biologically active compounds that may help to protect against development or progression of cancers.”
The Downside of Drinking Coffee
Of course, there are cons to downing multiple cups of Joe as well. Coffee causes halitosis, or bad breath, for many regular drinkers. When you drink coffee, the ingredient that wakes you up, caffeine, also dries out your mouth. Saliva is very important because it helps remove food particles and fights harmful bacteria. Without saliva, bacteria multiply and feed on food particles, breaking them down and releasing unpleasant odors.
The most obvious downside of coffee is teeth stains. Over time, coffee will stain teeth, causing our smile to yellow. Even with professional and over-the-counter whiteners, your teeth will continue to stain with habitual coffee use.
Whiter Teeth from Your Dallas Dentist
Moderation is key. Cutting down on how much coffee you consume will help your teeth stay whiter longer. Preventive dentistry also helps keep teeth healthy and bright. Simply maintaining proper dental habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, will assist in preventing the appearance of stains.
For patients with embarrassing stains after years of coffee drinking, your Dallas cosmetic dentist, Dr.Truong, provides a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures, including teeth whitening, veneers, and crowns. These repair damage to teeth, for a stronger, brighter smile.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Dallas Dentist
Interested in erasing stains and having whiter teeth? Dr. Truong offers the latest in cosmetic dentistry. Make an appointment today with either our West Dallas dentist office, near Cockrell Hill, Irving, and Grand Prairie at (214) 337-7800 or our Richardson dentist office, near Garland, Plano, and North Dallas, at (972 437-6000. We are proud to serve patients in the 75211 and 75080 zip codes, and surrounding neighborhoods.
