Are you a guy who just loves his coffee and cigars? You probably already know that these items stain your teeth- but since I work in the dental field, my conscience wouldn’t let me rest if I didn’t mention it. It’s true though- but the tooth-staining properties of coffee and cigars shouldn’t make you feel self-conscious. Luckily, there are ways to maintain that beautiful smile without giving up the things you love!
Brush Your Teeth After You Drink Coffee
One of the best (and most obvious) ways you can prevent staining your teeth is to brush your teeth right after you drink coffee. After you finish that cup of joe, go straight to the bathroom and brush your teeth for a couple of minutes. If you are at work or somewhere where brushing your teeth is not possible, you should just drink a few sips of water and swish it around. Water will help wash away a lot of the coffee that can stain your teeth.
Eat Carrots and Celery
Did you know that eating carrots and celery after drinking coffee can actually prevent staining? It is true. This is because these vegetables contain a lot of water, so they can help rub off a lot of the stains. Also, there are chemicals in celery that resist coffee’s ability to stain your teeth. Celery and coffee might not be the best-tasting combination, so save it for after you finish your cup.
Drink Cooler Coffee
Another thing you can do is drink your coffee a little cooler. If it is really hot, it has a better chance of staining your teeth. Drinking your coffee just a few degrees cooler can prevent a lot of staining in the future. Just let it cool for about five minutes before you drink it.
Floss Your Teeth
If you smoke cigars, it becomes even more important for you to floss your teeth every day. Nicotine and tar can easily get stuck in between your teeth, which can cause staining. If you just floss between your teeth thoroughly every day, you can prevent these stains. Also, flossing can help prevent heart attack and stroke! Flossing is the number one thing I recommend to everyone- it’s truly an incredible, inexpensive, and simple preventative measure anyone can take.
Use Anti-Tartar Mouthwash
It is also very important to use an anti-tartar mouthwash after you smoke. An anti-tartar mouthwash will keep your mouth clean and prevent a lot of tobacco related stains.
Clean Your Teeth With Baking Soda
Baking soda is great for whitening teeth. Every time you brush your teeth, just sprinkle a little baking soda on your toothbrush. Then, brush your teeth like normal. The baking soda might taste strange at first, but you will get used to it if you use it frequently.
Buy Whitening Toothpaste
If you smoke and drink coffee, you definitely should buy whitening toothpaste. This toothpaste will include whitening agents that will help remove stains from your teeth. Whitening toothpaste is inexpensive and can really help your teeth look whiter and brighter. Different brands of toothpaste have varying degrees of success, so try several.
See? You don’t have to change your lifestyle too much to keep enjoying the things you love. Remember to see your dentist once a year for a check-up as well- you’ll be happy you did.
Cammie Channing is a dental hygienist and health writer from Tucson, Arizona. In addition to her obvious interest in dentists and dentistry, she loves writing about general health and beauty as well.
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