Too much iced coffee in summer? It may cool you down — but rot your teeth
Office workers in Yeouido, Seoul, drink iced Americanos, June 9. Yonhap
As summer heat intensifies, more people are reaching for iced Americanos and ice cream to stay cool. But dentists warn that these refreshing treats can also lead to tooth decay and gum disease if consumed excessively without proper oral care.
Tooth decay, or dental caries, occurs when the enamel — the outermost layer of the tooth — becomes eroded by acids. These acids are produced when bacteria in the mouth break down sugar, creating an acidic environment that weakens the enamel. One of the body’s best defenses against this process is saliva, which neutralizes acid and helps remineralize teeth.
However, high temperatures can cause dehydration, reducing saliva production. “In summer, people tend to consume a lot of iced Americanos, but coffee is highly acidic and also acts as a diuretic,” said Kim Hyun-jung, a professor in the Department of Conservative Dentistry at Kyung Hee University Dental Hospital. “With dehydration already lowering saliva levels, drinking coffee can further dry out the mouth, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive,” she said.
When cavity-causing bacteria on tooth surfaces encounter sugar, they break it down and produce organic acids — increasing the risk of tooth decay. “Excess sugar consumption is like feeding the bacteria,” Kim said. “With people consuming more sweet fruits, ice cream, and soda in the summer, maintaining proper oral hygiene is especially important.”
Bacteria in the mouth can also lead to gum inflammation. As food residue accumulates, bacteria form dental plaque. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar over time, irritating the gums and leading to infection. People with dental prosthetics such as implants or dentures often believe they are immune to cavities and may neglect oral hygiene. But Kim warns, “Peri-implantitis — inflammation around the gum and bone supporting an implant — can occur and should not be ignored.” Left untreated, the condition can cause implants to loosen or fall out.
The best way to prevent oral disease is proper brushing. Experts emphasize that brushing thoroughly on all surfaces of the teeth is more important than the number of times or duration. A toothbrush with soft or medium bristles is recommended, and floss or mouthwash can be used to enhance oral hygiene.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.