When you have problems with your oral health, you can quickly think of a list of likely reasons why those problems occurred. People often look to their oral hygiene routine, or recognize that a long break from routine dental exams was to blame. If you are having trouble determining why oral health issues have affected you, it may be time to consider how different aspects of your diet might be to blame. Caffeine is a popular stimulant, one that many individuals rely on for energy boosts during the day. Unfortunately, many beverages that contain caffeine are able to negatively affect your oral health and appearance, making moderation important. Our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office can help you address problems with your oral health linked to caffeine consumption, and we can talk to you about habits that make you less susceptible to harm.
Caffeinated Drinks Can Make It Harder To Maintain A Healthy Smile
Different caffeinated beverages can carry different risks for your dental health. If you typically drink coffee or tea without added sugar, you can worry less about tooth decay. While the absence of sugar is helpful, keep in mind that these beverages are both able to cause dry mouth, which can make it more difficult for you to naturally fight oral bacteria during the day. Drink choices that do contain sugar, like soft drinks and energy drinks, can raise you risk for problems that require dental fillings and dental crowns. Remember that these drinks can also have unwelcome effects on your appearance. Colorful or dark beverages can leave chromogens or tannins behind that dull your enamel over time.
Soft Drink Consumption And Your Oral Health
Soft drinks are often cited as a problem for anyone who wants to keep their teeth healthy. These drinks are concerning for more than just their sugar content. Dark colas can increase your risk for teeth stains. Even diet drinks, which do not include sugar, are able to weaken enamel because of their acidity. When you drink acidic beverages like soft drinks and juices, you can weaken your enamel, which leads to greater susceptibility for cavities.
Drink More Water In Order To Protect Your Smile
An increase in water consumption can have long-term benefits for your general and dental health. If you drink more water throughout the day, you stay hydrated. This makes it easier for you to produce saliva, which fights bacteria and also helps to wash away food debris. Water can also help you maintain your energy levels and control your appetite. As a substitute for soft drinks and other beverages, water helps you effectively cut back on sugar, too!
Talk To Your Prairie Village, KS Dentist About Your Smile Concerns
Dr. Browne is ready to help people in and around Prairie Village protect their smiles! To find out more about us, please call our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office at 913-901-8585.
