Q: Is there any harm in a quick breakfast of coffee and doughnuts?
A: A nutrition-packed breakfast is the best way to get your day off on the right foot. When it comes to nutrition, there's not much in a coffee and a doughnut. Additionally, that selection can damage your teeth. Doughnuts are heavy in sugar, which is a key contributing factor to the process that leads to cavities and gum disease. The amount of sugar and cream in your coffee can also contribute to the proliferation of cavity-causing bacteria. And the tannins contained in coffee can work their way into tooth fissures and grooves, leaving your teeth with a rough, stained look.
If you absolutely can't avoid that morning doughnut, eat it quickly. The less time your teeth are exposed to the sugar, the less time the bacteria have to create the acids that lead to decay. Of course, if you have to eat breakfast on the run, you might try switching from a coffee and doughnut to a piece of fruit. Ideally, sit down to a nutritious breakfast of cereal and fruit and give yourself time to brush and floss before you leave for work. Talk with your dentist about ways to make your morning routine more tooth friendly.
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