It’s almost October, which means pumpkin spice season is in full swing! You’re preparing by buying a new comfortable throw for your couch and staying warm with hot drinks like coffee and tea. How else would you be able to get rid of that chill that sticks with you throughout the day? The last thing you’re wondering is whether hot drinks are bad for your teeth or not. To keep your pearly whites happy and healthy for family photos in November and December, implement these four tips to help reduce your risk of developing cavities and tooth discoloration.
Avoid the Sugary Additions
There are two types of people in this world, those who drink their coffee black, and those who enjoy a healthy amount of delicious flavoring in their hot drinks. Syrups, creamers, and other flavorings are often incredibly high in sugar, which you probably know is one of the main causes of cavities. It’s best to cut these additions from your fall drinks, but if you can’t live without them, be sure to brush regularly and keep hydrated with water throughout the day. This will help prevent sugar from settling on your molars, causing dental decay.
Substitute Green and Herbal Teas
Black tea is a great fall drink that’s robust and warm. Even though it’s the perfect beverage to get you in the mood for the holidays, it’s incredibly rich in tannins. These are a compound found in goods like red wine and dark chocolate that give them their deep color. Unfortunately, consuming too many foods that have a lot of this compound can cause your pearly whites to become discolored. If you’d like to keep your teeth stain-free in time for family pictures, try substituting green and herbal teas. Not only are they less rich in tannins, but they also have anti-inflammatory properties and are high in antioxidants!
Avoid Hot Chocolate
Unfortunately, there’s really no way to get around the fact that hot chocolate is packed full of sugar. Drinking too much of it to keep you warm can cause decay that can destroy your pearly whites. If you’re not willing to give hot chocolate up, be sure to brush your teeth regularly and stay hydrated, just like you would if you regularly consume coffee with sugary additions to it.
Visit Your Dentist
The best way to keep your mouth looking and feeling great through fall is to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning with your dentist. They can inspect the health of your gums and teeth and treat any small issues before they have a chance to progress. Plus, if you were interested in brightening your smile for your holiday photos, you could ask them about cosmetic treatment options like teeth whitening!
About the Author
Dr. Amy Farrell has nearly a decade of experience in the dental field and is committed to optimizing her patients’ oral health. She focuses on providing high-quality, individualized preventive treatments that deal with the small problems before they have a chance to progress and wreak havoc on her patients’ oral health. She offers comprehensive dental care including services from routine checkups and cleanings to porcelain veneers. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit NeoSmile Dental Care’s website or call 215-643-5220.
