Two Surprising Beverages That Can Help Fight Off Cavities

When it comes to teeth-friendly beverages, you probably think first of water, followed by any lighter-colored beverage that won’t cause stains. While most teas and coffee can be responsible for yellowing or stains if not rinsed off after consumption, they do have other benefits that can actually promote oral health by fighting off tooth decay. Keep reading to learn more about how these beverages can help keep your smile in good condition.

How Do Coffee and Green Tea Help Ward Off Cavities?

Let’s be honest: if you’re an avid coffee drinker, hearing that it can have a positive impact on your oral health is likely some of the best news you’ll hear all week! It’s important to note that first and foremost, any colored food or beverage can increase your risk for stains, but there are ways you can minimize the likelihood. For example, it might sound strange, but drinking your coffee through a straw is a great way to prevent staining. Fortunately, green tea is a lighter-colored beverage, so you won’t have to be as concerned about it. Here’s how these beverages that you probably really enjoy can also be kind to your teeth:

Antibacterial Additives

Black coffee or plain green tea, when consumed without milk and added sugar, both have antibacterial additives in them that can help zap cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. Believe it or not, studies have actually shown that when utilized as a mouth rinse, green tea not only removes plaque and bacteria, but also lowers the acid content, helping protect and preserve your enamel. The primary antibacterial additive is EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), which is found in high abundance in greet tea.

Gum Health Promotion

An alarming 50% of the population suffers from some type of gum disease. Both coffee and green tea contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to soothe gums that may be swollen due to infection. Combined with the antibacterial additives, both beverages can help to significantly promote gum health.

Cancer Avoidance

Besides giving you the extra boost you need to take on your day, coffee is also rich in antioxidants, and those have been proven to help prevent cancer. Maybe you enjoy a hot cup of tea in the evenings before bed. If so, try decaffeinated green tea, which is also extremely high in antioxidants.

Improved Breath

It might not surprise you, but this one is more focused on green tea. There’s a reason why it’s called “coffee breath” following your morning cup. Because green tea is so high in antibacterial properties, it can outperform gum, mints, and other bacteria-killing breath savers. It works by destroying the microbes that can cause bad breath after a meal.

Tomorrow morning, when you pour your first cup of joe or enjoy a mug of hot green tea, you can feel confident that you’re doing your body and teeth a favor.

About the Author

Dr. Marco Caballeros is passionate about providing each of his patients with the tools and knowledge they need to take good care of their smiles. He believes that everyone has the power to be proud of their teeth, and knowing how to keep them in great shape is the key to oral health. He has years of training and experience, and his practice is the best place for you to receive top-notch dental care in Frisco. Is it time for your next dental checkup? Schedule an appointment online or call (469) 476-4092.