Did you know coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world? In fact, in America alone, over 146 billion cups of joe are drunk each year. That is a lot of pick-me-up. People often debate whether coffee is good or bad for your health. In today’s blog, Lake Orion cosmetic dentist, Dr. Brad Greenfield, weighs in on the coffee debate.
Unexpected Benefits
A recent study revealed that coffee not only gets you going in the morning, but aids in the fight against . Published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, the study showed that people who drank four or more cups daily decreased their chances of developing oral cancer by 49%. According to Janet Hildebrand, an author of the study: “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.”
Negative Effects on Your Dental Health
While coffee may help prevent the development of serious diseases, java can wreak havoc on your dental health. The two most common drawbacks to regular coffee consumption are bad breath and teeth stains. Halitosis, or chronic , occurs when the caffeine content of coffee dries up the saliva in your mouth. Saliva cleanses the body of food particles and harmful bacteria. Without saliva, bacteria begins to break down food particles, which releases a foul odor. This process also increases the presence of oral acids, weakening tooth enamel and leaving your smile susceptible to tooth decay. The dark pigment in coffee also leaves permanent, embarrassing stains.
Teeth Whitening Options
Even with over-the-counter teeth whiteners, removing unsightly teeth stains can prove difficult. At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, cosmetic dentist Dr. Greenfield offers professional teeth whitening. With our chair-side option, you can receive whiter teeth in about an hour. Dr. Greenfield also provides convenient, at-home teeth whitening, so patients can brighten smiles from the comfort of their own homes. Remember, in addition to whitening, you can help prevent coffee stains by drinking in moderation, and maintaining proper dental habits, such as regular brushing and flossing.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Lake Orion Dentist
Interested in a brighter smile? Make an appointment with Dr. Greenfield to see which of our teeth whitening methods is right for you. Contact Lake Orion Family Dentistry today at 248-693-6213 to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve families from Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, as well as many other areas in southeast Michigan.
