I’ve been a coffee drinker for years and really haven’t given it too much thought. Just like you, I’ve read the articles for and against this practice every few years. However, a recent article in the publication General Dentistry (Gen Dent 2016; 64 July/August): 20-23), published by the Academy of General Dentistry, finds that moderate coffee drinking ( 3-5 cups/day) may be more beneficial than detrimental to dental patients!
On the plus side, recent studies have shown that coffee drinkers:
- Are 72% less likely to develop hepatocellular carcinoma than non- coffee drinkers
- Show decreased alanine transferase levels (a biomarker for liver damage)
- Are less likely to develop metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes
- Are less likely to develop Alzheimer and Parkinson’s Diseases
- Show decreased levels of depression
- Show decreased instances of blood clots and strokes
On the negative side, coffee drinking can increase the chances of miscarriages and can certainly stain tooth enamel and tooth colored fillings. Since my front teeth are porcelain veneers and incapable of staining, I think I’ll stick with my coffee habit. I just wish I could find a cup of coffee as good as the French coffee I had last summer!
I’d be more than happy to discuss any of your thoughts regarding your coffee consumption the next time you are in the office. In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding your oral health, don’t hesitate to contact me or the staff at my office, Dr. Laurence H. Stone, DDS, any time at 215-230-7667.
