As a local dentist office, we pay attention to research studies that can shed light into additional ways our patients can stay in good oral health. We focus on preventative oral health care and sometimes by changing a routine slightly; the risk of an oral infection can be reduced. Recently, we read an interesting report published by Boston University.
In this particular study, 1,000 men were observed for 30 years. This was a long and ongoing study to determine how coffee impacts the health of teeth and gums. Researchers found that men who drank one or more cups of coffee a day had less bone loss in their teeth than others within the group. Bone loss is a common symptom of gum disease and can eventually lead to teeth falling out. Interestingly, they found a direct link between drinking coffee and better long-term oral health. Given the duration of the study, the findings are significant. Additionally, they did not find any oral health consequences to being a heavy coffee drinker.
As a dentist, we understand that caffeine can have benefits to the gums and the body overall, when used in moderation. The report was published by Raul Garcia, D.M.D., who came to the conclusion that the anti-inflammatory agents in coffee were likely responsible for the improved gum health. Basically, if you drink coffee, you have less of a risk of your gums swelling. Swollen gums can be uncomfortable and lead to further complications like bleeding. Both diabetics and pregnant women are naturally at an increased risk of swollen gums since they tend to suffer from reduced blood flow overall. Drinking a cup of coffee may have additional benefits for people with these risk factors, though only men were studied.
The results of the test may apply to other types of drinks with caffeine such as tea. Caffeinated green tea may be a better option simply because it won’t stain your teeth as much as coffee will. As a dentist, it is important for us to point out that coffee does stain teeth so if you drink a lot of it – you may need our teeth whitening services in order to brighten your teeth and remove yellow stains. Fortunately, this is an easy procedure so if you want the benefits of coffee without the stains – you can.
Coffee is not a solve-all for gum disease so make sure to still practice good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing and flossing throughout the day to remove sugar, bacteria and plaque. You should also drink a lot of water because coffee can make you dehydrated, and hydration is important for the health of your body and for producing the saliva that is necessary for a healthy mouth. We also recommend that everyone have their teeth cleaned at least twice a year. This allows us to remove bacteria and plaque that weren’t removed with at-home care. As with most things in life, balance is important. Adding a cup of coffee to an existing healthy routine, can be good for your gums and help your teeth to stay healthy for years to come.
