According to the National Coffee Association, 62% of Americans drink coffee every day. If you’re one of them, then you know all too well that this beverage – although delicious – can leave an unpleasant odor behind. The good news is that you can get rid of coffee breath. Here’s how!
First, What Causes Coffee Breath?
Well, there’s more than one culprit! In addition to coffee being slightly dehydrating, sulfur gas is produced when bacteria remains in your mouth for extended periods of time. The acidic nature of this beverage and the Tannins found inside also lead to an unpleasant odor, which is why many patients struggle with bad breath afterward.
5 Ways to Combat Coffee Breath
The good news is that there are a few ways you can keep your breath fresh, including:
- Rinsing your mouth thoroughly with clean water after finishing your coffee
- Keeping sugar-free mints or gum with you
- Brushing your teeth about 20 minutes later
- Rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash for 30-60 seconds
- Drink water to prevent dry mouth and remove any lingering residue
If you’ve taken these steps, but the odor remains, then reach out to your dental team to schedule an exam. That way, they can determine if something else is causing the odor, like decay or an infection.
How to Drink Coffee the “Smile-Friendly” Way
Acidic beverages like coffee don’t just leave an unpleasant odor on your breath; they also increase your risk of tooth decay. That’s why patients are encouraged to enjoy this caffeinated beverage the “smile-friendly” way. That starts with keeping additives, like sugar, to a minimum and extends to using a straw to prevent the liquid from touching your teeth. When you’re done, rinse your mouth thoroughly with clean water and brush your teeth.
About the Practice
Our team at Dudley Family Dental shares a passion for creating healthy, happy smiles. That’s why we offer a wide range of services, serve patients of all ages, and use cutting-edge dental technology, including intraoral cameras and digital X-rays. If you are interested in learning more about your oral health, including how to prevent cavities at home, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (508) 943-7001.