Most of us love a good cup of coffee or two in the mornings and throughout the day. However, coffee and other food and drink can lead to staining on your teeth. Staining not only looks unsightly, but it can also lead to dental issues if it is not removed on a regular basis.

How To Prevent Teeth Stains

It doesn’t take long for staining to start building up on your teeth. Coffee contains an ingredient called Tannins, and this makes any color compounds like those found in coffee, tea and wine stick to your teeth. This causes the yellow discoloration you see on the teeth of regular coffee drinkers. 

There are some things you can do to prevent coffee staining. These include:

• Substituting: If you are drinking a lot of coffee throughout the day, you might want to consider substituting a cup with water or herbal tea. You could also add milk to your coffee to lighten the color.
• Rinsing your mouth: Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after drinking coffee to remove any excess residue.
• Brushing after your coffee: Brush your teeth after each cup and make sure you are brushing your teeth at least twice per day. Effective and regular oral care is important.
• Using a straw: A straw will help keep the liquid at the back of your mouth instead of swishing it around your teeth.
• Chewing gum: Chewing gum after your coffee will help you to produce more saliva that will wash away coffee and bacteria.
• Eating crunchy fruit and vegetables: Abrasive fruits and vegetables such as apples and celery can act as stain removers. 
• Visiting your dentist regularly: Regular visits to your dentist are important for keeping your mouth healthy. They can also give you advice on what is best for any staining issues you may have.
• Getting your teeth whitened: Teeth whitening is an option for stained and discolored teeth.

What Can Coffee Staining Lead To?

When stains are left untreated, it can lead to the tooth enamel breaking down and cause tooth decay. It is important that stains are removed regularly. Coffee is also very acidic which, again, can lead to decay.

How To Remove Coffee Stains From Teeth

If you have used all the preventative measures to avoid staining, but it still occurs, then staining can be removed by regularly visiting your dentist for cleanings. Where necessary, tooth whitening could help brighten your teeth. Your dentist can discuss all the options with you.

You can also try whitening toothpaste and whitening strips in between visits. An electric or ultrasonic toothbrush may also be more effective at removing stains, paired with regular and effective flossing.

Other Foods and Drinks That Can Cause Staining

It isn’t just coffee that can stain your teeth. There are a variety of foods and drinks that can cause staining and discoloration. Some of these include:

• Red wine
• Soda
• Tea
• Dark fruit juices such as cranberry and grape juice
• Curries
• Berries
• Tomato sauces

Visit Your Dentist

Visiting your dentist regularly for routine checkups and cleanings will ensure that stains are removed on a regular basis. They will also ensure that your mouth is kept as healthy as possible.

If you feel that your teeth have become dull and discolored, then you can have them whitened by us. We offer cosmetic teeth whitening here at West Coast Dental. 

Sources:

Healthfully – Tannins and Acids in Coffee

Healthline – Does Coffee Stain Your Teeth?