Dentist warns common drink linked to dry mouth, dangerous breath and cavities

Aug 12, 2023 at 1:19 PM
Dentist warns common drink linked to dry mouth, dangerous breath and cavities

Dentist Payal Bhalla cautioned espresso drinkers that the drink can stain enamel because of the presence of tannins.

As espresso has an “acid nature”, the drink might “erode tooth enamel and lead to tooth sensitivity and cavities”.

Bhalla added: “Its diuretic properties that can contribute to dry mouth and reduced saliva production, increasing the risk of tooth decay.”

The dental skilled defined: “Saliva performs an important position in sustaining oral health by neutralising acids and washing away meals particles and dangerous micro organism.

“A dry mouth can enhance the danger of tooth decay and dangerous breath.”

If you tend to sip on your coffee, this could be more risky because of prolonged exposure to its harmful components.

By sipping on coffee, there is an extended amount of time that the teeth are exposed to tannins.

“Tannins are answerable for the darkish color in espresso and might adhere to the enamel, resulting in discolouration and stains on the enamel,” Bhalla explained.

As noted earlier, coffee is acidic, so “the longer it stays involved with the enamel, the extra time it has to erode the tooth enamel”.

Another thing to be wary of is if you add sugar or sweeteners to your coffee.

Bhalla said: “Sipping [coffee] slowly exposes your enamel to extended sugar publicity.

“This provides more time for the bacteria in your mouth to feed on the sugar and produce acids that can damage the enamel.”

For these not able to half with espresso, Bhalla has some prime ideas.

“Limit the time your teeth are in contact with coffee by drinking it more quickly,” Bhalla really useful.

Another suggestion is to “use a straw to reduce direct contact with your teeth”.

Bhalla added: “Rinse your mouth with water after drinking coffee to help neutralise acidity and wash away staining compounds.

“Practise good oral hygiene, together with common brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.”

Payal Bhalla is the Lead Dentist and Clinical Director of Quest Dental Clinic.