Five Ways to Reduce Coffee Stains: Without Expensive Treatment

At Reset Dental Studio, we embrace all lifestyles. Instead of altering them, we aim to first and foremost support them. We understand that coffee consumption is a part of many people's lives, and we support it. As with all things, moderation is crucial. From a dental cosmetic perspective, prevention is equally important. While tooth whitening treatments can address coffee stains, there are several preventative techniques that can help maintain whiter teeth without the need for costly procedures. Even those who whiten their teeth regularly can benefit from these tips to reduce the frequency of treatments. Here are five strategies to minimize coffee stains while continuing to enjoy your coffee.

Five Ways to Reduce Coffee Stains: Without Expensive Treatment

USE A PAPER FILTER

The way coffee is prepared can impact your teeth. Using paper filters in methods like pour-over or espresso extraction can trap tannins, the compounds responsible for staining. By using paper filters, you can protect your teeth from stains. There are several methods to prepare coffee with paper filters

• Pour-over coffee such as those made by Hario V60 or Chemex

• Espresso coffee can also be made using these paper filters in the puck However it is important to note that your average coffee shop is not using this for every cup of coffee. You likely need to make espresso at home and use this filter on your own.

• A traditional coffee maker such as Mr. Coffee also uses paper filters, showing you don't need a fancy gadget to protect your teeth from coffee stains.

• Aeropress uses a paper filter as well.

Methods that typically do not use paper filters, such as French Press and espresso-based drinks from coffee shops, tend to have higher tannin content

DRINK YOUR COFFEE AT ONE TIME

Saliva protects teeth by rinsing tooth surfaces. Consuming coffee in one sitting allows saliva to clean the teeth effectively. Sipping coffee over an extended period repeatedly exposes teeth to tannins, diminishing saliva's protective role. Additionally, coffee is acidic, and prolonged exposure can lead to tooth erosion, creating rough surfaces that are more prone to staining. Certainly, drinking coffee within a short time span is good practice.

ADD MILK

For all my purists out there, let me preface by saying I personally drink coffee black. However, adding a splash of milk can lighten the staining effects of coffee. (Latte lovers rejoice.) Let's be clear. We do not recommend creamer or other sugar-laden additives. A cortado or cappuccino offers a good balance.

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

Water is your best friend in dentistry. Water acts like saliva in rinsing teeth. Drinking water immediately after coffee helps remove dark stains and neutralizes the oral environment, reducing acid erosion. A beneficial habit for coffee drinkers is to consume plenty of fluids post-coffee.

WAIT TO BRUSH

Brushing teeth immediately after drinking coffee can exacerbate enamel wear by rubbing in the acidity. We definitely do not want that! I recommend waiting 30 minutes before teeth brushing. This rule applies after eating food as well. For breath control after coffee, xylitol gum is my choice treatment.

If you wish to implement these practices but don't know where to start, check out our post about creating habits!