Enjoy Pumpkin Spice Season Without Worrying About Your Oral Health

Nearly everybody will agree that there’s no better way to get in the mood for the holidays than trying all the new seasonal hot drinks that are coming out. Because of the brisk breeze and cold weather, hot cups of tea and coffee are vital to help keep you warm. It may surprise you to know that some of these delicious beverages are even great for your oral health. Read on to learn how certain hot drinks like coffee can benefit your gums and teeth.

Herbal and Green Teas Defend Your Gums

Many people are surprised to find out that green and herbal tea can boost your dental health. Whether you’re looking for something to warm you up, or a small caffeine boost to get your through the rest of the day, this brewed, earthy drink can do both!

In a study conducted in 2016, researchers found that green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce irritation and swelling caused by the accumulation of harmful oral bacteria. It can promote the health of teeth and gums and even ward off one of the most common oral health problems, gum disease.

They also have antioxidants that reduce your chances of developing deadly diseases such as oral cancers. However, before you load up on these miracle-teas, you’ll want to skip sweeteners that could cause cavities. Instead, try sugar alternatives that don’t cause dental decay or bacteria accumulation.

Coffee Prevents Cavities

A study published in the Journal of Conservative Dentistry in 2009 found that coffee may actually be able to prevent cavities from forming. As one of the most consumed products in the world, this was great news for dentists around the world. The results of the study showed that people who regularly consumed roasted coffee without any additives had fewer cavities. Why’s that? Upon further research, they found that coffee contains potassium, niacin, magnesium, and important antioxidants that ward off Streptoccus mutans, an oral bacteria known to cause dental decay.

Most people try to limit their coffee consumption or don’t drink it at all because it can lead to stained and discolored teeth. A great way to avoid this but still reap the anti-cavity benefits from the beverage is to brush before you drink. Tannins are compounds found in foods and beverages that are rich in color, such as red wine and coffee. They also cause dental stains by clinging to plaque located on the surface of your teeth. If you remove the plaque, they’ll have less of a visible impact on your smile.  

Fall and winter can have you begging for a hot drink to toast you up. When you ditch the sugary additives, you can actually boost the health of your teeth and gums, that way you don’t have to worry, “Are hot drinks bad for my teeth?” With regular preventive care, you can maintain beautiful and healthy pearly whites that you’ll want to show off in your family holiday photos!

About the Author

Dr. Derek Song is passionate about providing his patients with high-quality, trustworthy dental care. With a focus on evidence-based and patient-focused treatment, he is able to treat the small problems before they have a chance to become more severe and cause discomfort. For questions or to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning before the holidays, visit Derek Song, DMD’s website or call 781-272-5890.