Some like it cold, some like it hot. Some prefer the sophistication of a skillfully crafted double latte in a luxurious high-rise setting, while others are happily content with a basic cup of coffee at a nearby diner.
Regardless of your coffee preferences, it’s unlikely that you enjoy the thought of developing cavities due to the excessive amounts of sugar found in popular coffee additives such as flavored syrups and creamers.
To help you flavor your coffee while safeguarding against cavities and tooth decay, here are some suggestions.
Use a natural sweetener
While sugar can make coffee taste delicious, it can also lead to tooth decay. Although alternatives like honey, raw sugar, agave, and maple syrup may be better for your overall health than refined white sugar and enhance the taste of your coffee, they are still types of sugar that can contribute to tooth decay.
Luckily, there are several alternatives to sugar that can help in maintaining good dental health. Here are some natural sweeteners that can add taste to your coffee while minimizing the adverse consequences of sugar:
- Monk fruit is a completely natural, zero-calorie sweetener that originates from a Chinese gourd known as luo han guo. Although it can be costly, its intense sweetness means that even a small amount can go a long way.
- Xylitol is a type of sugar alcohol that naturally occurs in plants. Despite containing some calories, it is significantly less than sugar, and it does not promote tooth decay or raise blood sugar levels. Due to its tooth-friendly properties, xylitol is commonly found in sugar-free gum as an ingredient that not only prevents tooth decay but may also help fight it.
Add cocoa powder
Cocoa not only adds flavor to coffee, but it also has high levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants offer many health benefits, like reducing the risk of heart disease, promoting healthy gum tissue by improving blood flow, and lowering the risk of gum disease by reducing inflammation. To satisfy your craving for mocha flavor without added sugar, choose unsweetened 100% cocoa powder.
Sprinkle in cinnamon
Cinnamon is a beloved addition to coffee, especially during the fall season, as it offers a delightful taste of autumn. Beyond its flavor, cinnamon also boasts numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the repair of gum tissue. It has also been shown to lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in individuals with diabetes. A dash of cinnamon in your morning coffee can provide a tasty and healthful pick-me-up. For a more intense cinnamon flavor, consider adding the spice to your coffee grounds before brewing.
Try a different roast
The type of coffee bean used can impact not only the taste; it can also make a difference to your oral health. Coffee is naturally acidic, and certain varieties can have higher acidity levels than others. To lessen the potential harm to your oral health caused by your daily cup of coffee, consider switching to a low-acid coffee and adding natural sweeteners and flavorings instead of sugar.
Protect your teeth while drinking coffee
In addition to what you add to your coffee, how you consume it can also impact your dental health. To prevent stains, we recommend that you drink your coffee in one sitting instead of sipping it throughout the day. Rinsing your mouth and teeth with water after drinking coffee can also be helpful.
Regardless of how you prefer your coffee, it’s important to prioritize your oral health. Consider brushing your teeth after drinking coffee in the morning, and make sure to brush at least twice daily, floss once daily, and maintain regular appointments with your Dallas dentist.
Sources:
“Everything You Need To Know About Monk Fruit Sweeteners,” Food Insight, https://foodinsight.org/everything-you-need-to-know-about-monk-fruit-sweeteners/
“Health benefits of xylitol,” National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32638045/ “Antioxidants in Cocoa,” National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7761840/
“Cinnamon Improves Glucose and Lipids of People With Type 2 Diabetes,” American Diabetes Association, https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/26/12/3215/21858/Cinnamon-Improves-Glucose-and-Lipids-of-People
“10 Best Low-Acid Coffee Brands in 2023,” Coffee Affection, https://coffeeaffection.com/best-low-acid-coffee/
