Which Teeth whitening Method is Best for Coffee Drinkers?

Whether you call it brain juice, brew, cupped lightening, morning thunder, or plain old java, if you are a coffee drinker, you aren't alone. About 54 percent of American adults rely on coffee every day. On average they consume 3.1 cups daily and spend about $165 a year on coffee. For many of us, it starts the day and keeps the brain going. It is also a primary cause of dingy dentition. Dr. Don Jones and his hygiene team at Social Circle Dental help patients throughout the Monroe area enjoy their Joe and still have bright smiles, with professional teeth whitening.


Why Coffee Stains Teeth

Coffee actually contributes to tooth discoloration in two ways. First and most obvious is coffee's dark pigment. Coffee beans are the seeds of an evergreen shrub. The bushes bear red fruit called coffee cherries. It is picked and processed, leaving only a light tan parchment covering on the seeds. The parchment layer is hulled, revealing brown coffee beans. Depending on the roasting process, beans may turn almost back in color. When the beans are ground and steeped in hot water, dark pigmentation is released along with a tantalizing aroma and flavor.

While it isn't apparent, tooth enamel is porous. Particles of dark pigment from coffee settle into microscopic pits and grooves in enamel. Stains become especially obvious between teeth, where they are tougher to remove with brushing and where tooth contours cast natural shadows.

The second way coffee stains teeth is through acidity. The acids in coffee contribute to enamel erosion, which exposes the yellowish layer of dentin underneath. Basically the same pigments and acids are present in all coffee beverages, so it doesn't significantly reduce risk of staining if you add cream.

Professional Whitening to the Coffee Drinker's Rescue!

Abrasive "whitening" toothpastes scrape off some of the surface stains, but they also scratch enamel, creating more grooves to trap coffee pigment and eventually adding to the problem.

Dr. Jones recommends whitening with professional strength peroxide gel in custom-made trays that fit comfortably. Dr. Jones customizes the whitening formula to your needs. You wear the trays for an hour or two a day, while the whitening agent loosens and lifts even deep stains from tooth enamel. The process is gradual, to minimize risk of sensitivity and maximize safety. You begin to see a brighter smile after just a few applications, and full results in about two weeks. With good home hygiene, your bright smile can easily last a year or more.


Professional teeth whitening lets you enjoy your go juice and a gorgeous smile. Call Social Circle Dental today at 770-464-1900 to get started.