It may still be warm here in Southern California, but autumn is right around the corner. And, if you’re like everyone here in the office, you’re probably waiting with bated breath for Starbucks to bring back Pumpkin Spice for Fall.
This popular fall flavor has gained huge popularity the past few years. In fact, research shows that pumpkin flavored items rose by 11.6% in recent years.
And pumpkin-flavor is not just found in coffee. Snacks and baby food have it too!
But is it good for your dental health? Not really.
3 Reasons To Pass on Pumpkin Spice
Here’s a look at the top three ways pumpkin spice lattes can be detrimental to your smile:
Excess Sugar: Did you know that a standard 16-ounce pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks has 50 grams of sugar? Consuming this much sugar isn’t just hazardous to your overall health, it can also be destructive for your dental health. When we consume sugar, bacteria in the mouth will metabolize and create an acid as a by-product. Acids in the mouth can irritate the gum tissue and lead to the demineralization of the teeth.
Acidity: Aside from the added sugar that increases acidity in the mouth, the coffee itself is also acidic. As we mentioned before, this acidity will lead to enamel erosion, which will then leave you susceptible to tooth decay.
Tooth Stains: The dark color of this espresso beverage can also cause stains to your smile. The outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel, has a porous surface where dark pigment can easily get trapped. After enough time, dark beverages can cause your smile to look yellowish.
Opt For Real Pumpkin Instead
If you want to enjoy the pumpkin taste without all the added sugar, try opting for real pumpkin! This fall fruit is vitamin-packed and can actually benefit your dental health in the following ways:
Fiber: Pumpkins have a ton of fiber! Fiber-rich foods are beneficial for dental health because they stimulate saliva. Saliva can help neutralize acids in the mouth and act as a natural defense against tooth decay.
Zinc: Want to heal your inflamed gums? Pumpkin is rich in zinc, which plays an important role in the healing process of the soft tissues affected by gum disease.
Vitamin C: In addition to zinc, vitamin C is important for healing gums inflamed by periodontal disease. Since vitamin C is so important for fighting off infection, patients who suffer from gum disease should be sure to eat fruits and veggies rich in vitamin C.
About THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES® offers affordable cosmetic and laser dentistry and gentle, compassionate general dental care in Pasadena, CA. Our office is conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover affordable up-to-date dentistry and a team who truly cares at THE SCIENCE OF SMILES®.
