Are you a regular coffee fiend? Does that daily cup (or pot) of Joe fuel and sustain you throughout the day? Many of us enjoy coffee regularly, but the bad breath that it causes is unenjoyable for you and those around you. Here’s a look into why coffee can cause your breath to stink, and some tips from your dentist for combating it.
Why Does Coffee Cause Bad Breath?
When you roast coffee beans, sulfur-containing aroma compounds are formed. Along with the acids present in the coffee, these compounds can produce bad breath—sulfur is notorious for that “rotten-egg” smell, after all. The high acidity of coffee can also lower the pH level of your mouth, which will encourage bacteria to grow.
Coffee can also cause dry mouth which reduces saliva production. Caffeine is in part to blame for this—it contains molecules called tannins, which cause your mouth to feel parched. Your saliva also helps to wash away germs and bacteria, which will grow unchecked as your mouth remains dry.
Additionally, many of the additives found in coffee such as cream, sugar, and milk can cause an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth. When bacteria consume protein particles, they release a form of sulfur gas that you in turn release into the air via your breath.
Getting Rid of Coffee Breath
If you just can’t cut coffee from your life, don’t worry! There are still many measures you can take to help reduce and eliminate coffee breath:
- Brush your teeth immediately after drinking coffee (within half an hour); toothpastes containing zinc or clove oil are highly recommended.
- Use a sugar-free breath mint or cough drop after consuming coffee.
- Chew sugarless gum.
- Gargle with mouthwash.
- Chew on fresh, raw parsley.
- Drink a large glass water.
- Drink black roasted coffee instead of coffee with sweeteners or consider sugarless alternatives—this may not entirely eliminate your bad breath but can reduce it.
If you love coffee, it would be tragic to give it up entirely because of the bad breath it can cause. However, by understanding how coffee breath occurs and knowing a few tips to combat it, you can continue enjoying your favorite beverage without worrying about your breath.
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Howard proudly serves patients and families in the Rancho Bernardo area and would be happy to assist you with achieving the smile of your dreams! Dr. Howard received his DDS from the UCLA School of Dentistry and has over 30 years of experience and expertise in a wide variety of fields. He is also an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a rare distinction achieved by only 466 dentists worldwide. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Howard, please reach out through his website or by phone: (760) 599-6559.