The average coffee drinker in the US consumes around two cups of coffee a day, according to the National Coffee Association. While coffee is the go-to productivity booster for most of us and is the necessary evil to get through the work week, it can also stain your teeth. Here are six ways you can mitigate the harmful effects (e.g. tooth discoloration) of coffee:
1. Consume your coffee at specific times, instead of sipping on it throughout the day.
2. Use a straw to drink your coffee to minimize contact with your teeth.
3. Rinse your mouth with water after having coffee to rinse away coffee from your teeth and keep your mouth hydrated.
4. Brush your teeth regularly (twice a day). In addition, brush your teeth with baking soda twice a month to help whiten teeth naturally.
5. Avoid using sweeteners and creamers as that can speed up the yellowing process in the tooth's enamel and enable plaque to form on the tooth's surface.
6. Visit your dentist for regular cleanings to remove surface stains.
If you are looking to brighten your smile and remove the tooth stains caused by your coffee addiction, consider getting your teeth professionally whitened.