Coffee acts as fuel to help us stay afloat throughout the day. On the other hand, coffee can stain our teeth, which eventually gets harder to remove. It takes just one cup of coffee to stain your teeth.

Tannin, an ingredient found in coffee, is a polyphenol compound that breaks down in the water. Tannins are naturally found in a variety of edible plants, contributing color and flavor. It is a plant-based compound that enables stains to stick to your teeth and leave behind an unwanted yellow hue. Common sources of food containing high amounts of tannins include coffee, tea, wine, and chocolate.

Tooth stains can be caused by regular consumption of coffee over time and can make you self-conscious. Additionally, stains can appear on the surface of dental veneers after regular intake of drinks like tea, coffee, wine, etc. However, that does not mean you need to stop having your favorite morning drink.

Here are some steps to remove coffee stains from your teeth

1. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are commonly used for teeth whitening. Mix two drops of hydrogen peroxide and a small amount of baking soda to make a runny paste. Brush twice a day with this paste to remove coffee stains.
2. You can use reliable, ADA approved over-the-counter teeth whitening products (toothpaste and whitening strips) after consulting with your dentist. 
3. Coconut oil pulling is another good home remedy to remove stains from your teeth. Coconut oil acts as an antibacterial agent, and it also helps to whiten your teeth. It can kill bacteria that build up on teeth after drinking or eating, neutralizing excess acid inside your mouth, and dulling the effect of the stains.
4. Switch from a manual toothbrush to an electric one. It provides better cleaning power and keeps your teeth and gums healthy. Make sure to brush twice a day. And do not forget to floss too!
5. Brush your teeth for around half an hour after drinking coffee, and rinse your mouth with water before brushing.
6. Avoid sugar and creamer in your coffee; they speed up the growth of discoloring bacteria.
7. If iced coffee is your favorite, drink it through a straw to reduce the chances of staining your teeth.
8. To prevent bacteria buildup, have your coffee in one sitting rather than having it throughout the day.
9. Drink a glass of water to rinse your mouth and teeth after finishing your cup of coffee.
10. Have raw fruits and vegetables like lemons and strawberries that contain natural fibers to help break down bacteria and clean your teeth.
11. Most importantly, drink fewer cups of coffee and replace it with green tea as much as possible.

Other drinks and food that can stain your teeth include: 

• Tea contains tannins, which cause staining. Adding milk to your tea can worsen it.
• Cola contains acid that wears away at your teeth, causing stains eventually.
• Red wine is one of the most common causes of teeth staining.
• Berries are great to munch on, but they are another tooth-staining culprit.
• Tomato and tomato-based sauces cause teeth staining due to their deep color pigmentation. Curry with strong and deep coloring can also cause stains in your teeth.
• Fruit juices like cranberry, blueberry, and grape juices are responsible for leaving stains behind on your teeth.
• Soy sauce and its dark color will linger on your teeth even after you have finished your yummy stir-fry.

Coffee is great for your health and teeth if you drink in moderation. Remember to brush and mouthwash after sipping your favorite coffee. Visit your dentist twice a year for dental cleaning and get teeth whitening done under expert care. To get rid of coffee stains from your teeth and other dental problems, visit your dentist in West Des Moines.