Keeping Warm This Winter And The Effect On Your Teeth

Many people don’t like the winter months because they are so cold and dreary. Other people love winter activities such as skiing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. Still other people find the winter months a cozy time to hunker down indoors and read, watch TV, spend time on their hobby, play games with family, etc. Regardless of how you choose to spend the winter, there is one thing we all have in common and that’s keeping warm. Warm beverages are a very popular way to keep warm during the winter months, but what effect do they have on your teeth?             

Tooth Stains

Did you know that many of the beverages you drink to keep warm can stain your teeth? Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, warm cider, can all damage your teeth in more ways than one. They can stain your teeth, and some can even contribute to decay such as the hot chocolate and cider. We know you are not going to stop drinking all warm beverages. They are too comforting both physically and psychologically, and enjoying a hot beverage is a good way to relieve stress and pamper yourself.

Take Care of Your Teeth

Rather than avoid all warm beverages, there are some things you can do to avoid tooth stains and decay caused by sugar or acids (as in the cider).  For instance:

Brush your teeth: Althoughbrushing your teeth after drinking beverages that stain will help remove leftover liquid from your teeth, brushing after acidic drinks won’t help prevent decay. Acids do damage to your teeth within the first 30 seconds of contact.

Use whitening toothpaste and mouthwash: There are many types of toothpastes and mouthwashes with whitening formulas on the market today that can help combat tooth stains.

Drink water: Sipping water between drinks or alternating between a sip of water and a sip of your hot beverage can help wash away dark liquids that will stain. The longer they remain on your teeth the more damage they do.

Use a straw: It may seem silly, but the easiest way to keep dark liquids off your teeth is by drinking them through a straw.

Chew gum afterwards:  Chewing gum increases your saliva flow helping to wash away the dark pigment, sugar, and acids. There are also sugar-free gums on the market said to help prevent or treat tooth stains.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.

About The Author

Dr. Brian Evans

Dr. Brian Evans, the current owner of Wager Evans Dental, initially worked as a CPA before transitioning to dentistry to make a greater impact on people's lives. He joined his father-in-law to expand a three-decade-long legacy in the northern Nevada community, eventually taking over the practice. Dr. Evans prioritizes a comfortable environment for his patients and stays at the forefront of dental technology and medical techniques through continuous education and advanced training, focusing on oral and systemic health.

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