What’s the Safest Teeth Whitening Option for Coffee Drinkers?
May 6, 2024
You can’t start your day without a nice cup of coffee. Something about your ritual is just so soothing (or maybe it’s the caffeine), and it helps get you through the morning. Many Americans relate, which is why teeth whitening is a popular trend. With great beverages comes great responsibility, unfortunately. Coffee is a glorious burden that will quickly stain your pearly whites.
So it’s a good thing there are many teeth whitening options available – though some are better than others. Keep reading to find out why it might be best to simply visit your dentist.
Immaculate Oral Hygiene Can Prevent Yellowing
Making coffee a habit will make yellowing a habit, so it’s important to maintain an immaculate oral hygiene routine. Take a few steps up from the “brush twice daily, floss once daily” rule by rinsing your mouth with warm water right after your morning brew. This will help wash out staining substances before they can settle in. It’s also a good idea to invest in an electric toothbrush and Waterpik, as they can clean teeth more efficiently.
Of course, if you already brush and floss like a superstar, or if you already have some chronic discoloration, you might need additional help.
Homebrewed Mixtures Can Technically Whiten Teeth
You might have heard that baking soda and charcoal can make for good whitening pastes. This is technically true. However, these substances can be incredibly abrasive. Their rough texture will wear away at your enamel, potentially thinning it down and causing increased sensitivity.
Store-bought remedies can have similar effects. If you see “whitening” toothpastes or over-the-counter whitening kits, be wary. Many of them are rough on your teeth (and don’t work very well, if at all).
Your Dentist Can 100% Whiten Your Teeth – Safely and Comfortably
Something that your dentist has that you and the grocery store don’t is specialized, professional equipment and training.
With an in-office whitening treatment, your dentist will apply a gel-like substance to your teeth. After that, all they have to do is flick an LED light on for about 15 minutes, and – voila! – your teeth are clear and sparkly!
Another option is to ask your dentist for a take-home whitening kit. The difference between these and the ones you’ll find at the store is the whitening material. Your dentist will provide you with a set of trays that contain the exact same gel used for their in-office treatments. Your glamorous transformation will be more gradual with this method, but it’s a great way for those with tight schedules to whiten their teeth.
We’d all like pristine teeth. For coffee drinkers, this can be a bit more challenging, but not impossible. Your dentist can gently whiten your teeth and eliminate stains without eliminating your precious enamel. They can also give you recommendations for maintaining stain-free pearly whites, so you don’t have to quit coffee completely! Give your dentist a call so you can enjoy both your favorite drink and your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Bita Kamali loves helping patients achieve a smile they’ll want to show off! She has over 20 years of experience, meaning you can trust her to provide quality care. Whether you’re interested in an in-office or take-home whitening treatment, Dr. Kamali will ensure your teeth look stunning! For more information, contact her office at 972-818-1300 or explore her website.