Tooth discoloration -- what some call "coffee smile" -- is one of the less savory consequences of drinking coffee. Regular coffee intake can have a deleterious effect on teeth; over time, teeth will become stained, even in spite of regular tooth-brushing and flossing. For the coffee drinker with a serious caffeine habit, though, there are ways to combat tooth discoloration to keep those pearly whites just that: pearly and white.
Causes
Coffee stains the outer layer, or enamel, of the teeth. This type of staining is known as extrinsic discoloration, which can also be caused by smoking, wine and sodas. Tannic acid, the stuff that gives coffee its color, works into the grooves of the tooth enamel over time.
Power Bleaching
Dentists often can remove most or all coffee staining from teeth via a process called power bleaching. A light-activated bleach is applied to the teeth and remains for 30 to 45 minutes. In some cases, whiter results are immediately noticeable. Power bleaching is administered in addition to regular cleanings and may require multiple visits.
Home Treatment
Many over-the-counter products allow people to bleach their teeth at home. One popular product consists of a bleaching gel that is squeezed into a mouth guard. A person then wears the mouth guard for a length of time on a daily basis, often at night before bed. Home remedies are not as strong as dentist bleaching, however and require a more sustained effort to remove coffee stains.
Prevention/Solution
Regular coffee drinkers who have yet to suffer from "coffee smile" can stave off the adverse results of staining. Rinsing your mouth out with water following a cup of coffee helps remove the tannic acid responsible for stains. If you prefer iced coffee, drink from a straw to prevent stains. You can even wipe your teeth with a paper towel following a cup of joe.
Warning
Bleaching, whether at home or in a dentist's office, can make teeth temporarily more sensitive. Sensitivity is most apparent around the gum lines, though it typically goes away after a couple of days of treatment. People with pre-existing tooth sensitivity may see longer sensitivity to bleaching regimens. In addition, bleach kits that use "boil-and-bite" mouth guards tend to cause more irritation because they have more contact with the gums.
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