Coffee tastes great, can provide you with a boost of energy, and may even offer some mild health benefits. What’s not to love about it? Well… it often causes bad breath, which can be embarrassing if you are talking with coworkers or trying to give your special someone a good morning kiss. Why does coffee breath occur, and what can you do to get rid of this annoying problem? Read on below to discover the answers.
Why Does Coffee Cause Bad Breath?
There are a few reasons why coffee can cause bad breath:
- When coffee beans are roasted, sulfur-containing compounds form, which carry an unpleasant scent.
- The caffeine and tannins in coffee can contribute to dry mouth. When your oral cavity is lacking adequate saliva, bacteria is likely to accumulate and cause unwanted odors.
- Add-ins can trigger bacterial growth. In particular, sugar and sweetened creamers can allow bacteria to grow and thrive in your mouth. That, combined with lower-than-usual saliva production, is a formula for bad breath.
- Most people drink coffee after they brush their teeth. This allows unpleasant odors to linger.
Tips for Fighting Coffee Breath
Here are a few ways to battle coffee breath:
- Drink water. After you finish your coffee, sip on some water. This can rinse away bacteria and other particles in your mouth. Staying hydrated also encourages saliva production.
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash. The mouthwash can fight harmful bacteria and give your breath a refreshing minty scent.
- Use other breath fresheners. Chewing on sugar-free gum can freshen up your breath and encourage saliva production. Sugar-free mints can have a similar effect.
- Eat yogurt. Research indicates that the good bacteria in yogurt can help to fight odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. Plus, it has nutrients like calcium that are beneficial for oral health. (Try to choose a yogurt without a ton of added sugar.)
- Choose another morning pick-me-up. If you love coffee, there is no reason to stop drinking it. However, other beverages may be easier on your breath. Green or black tea can be great choices!
What if the Bad Breath Persists?
If, despite your best efforts to curb your coffee breath, you continue to struggle with an unpleasant odor, it is possible that your coffee is not to blame. You might have gum disease or another oral health condition that is causing the problem. Tell your dentist about your concerns during your next checkup — or sooner if you are particularly concerned about your smile’s well-being. They will analyze the problem and recommend how you can enjoy fresher breath and, possibly, improved oral health.
Coffee breath can be embarrassing! Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to address this issue.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Bryan Griffith and Alex Hartgrove work together to provide general dentistry services to the Prestonsburg community in a comfortable, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment. If you are struggling with bad breath or any other issue that relates to your oral health, they would be pleased to consult with you. To learn more about them and our team, contact us at 606-874-9311.