Some of our favorite parts of living in Greenpoint are indulging in Radio Bakery’s cinnamon bun, settling into a cozy couch at Hide & Seek with a latte, and sharing an apple friter (or two) with a friend at Peter Pan. Life’s simple pleasures shouldn’t interfere with our oral health.
How can we enjoy Greenpoint’s best AND a healthy, bright smile?
How sugar and coffee interact with your mouth
When you eat pastries or drink coffee with sweetener, bacteria in your mouth convert sugar into acid, which softens your enamel for 20-30 minutes. During this window, your teeth are more vulnerable to decay.
The duration and frequency of exposure are important to be aware of. Eating a donut creates a 20-30 minute “acid” window. Sipping a sweetened or acidic drink for 1-2 hours creates a continuous window of sensitivity.
Cavities rarely arise from occasional treats. They develop from patterns, like frequent sugary snacks, extended exposure to sweetened or acidic drinks, and inconsistent flossing or long gaps between dentist visits.
What to do about it? Practically speaking
Pair coffee with water and other supports
For coffee drinks you consume over longer periods of time, alternate with sips of water. Water dilutes the acid and sugar while you consume, rather than letting them coat your teeth.
Other ways to minimize coffee’s impacts:
- Add milk to reduce the drink’s overall acidity; cow’s milk and fortified soy milk contain calcium and proteins that help buffer acid and protect enamel.
- Use a straw to reduce staining and direct acid contact with your front teeth.
- Rinse your mouth afterward to reset your mouth’s pH and wash away residual acids.
- Opt for cold brew or light roast, which are less acidic and contain fewer staining agents than dark roasts.
If you prefer to brush your teeth, wait 20-30 minutes after finishing your drink to avoid harming sensitive enamel.
Eat sweet treats with calcium-rich foods
When eating sweets, have them alongside meals, rather than on their own. Your mouth produces more saliva when eating substantial meals, which naturally neutralizes acid and washes away food particles.
Foods that help offset sugar:
- Cheese and dairy balance your mouth’s pH, and provide calcium to strengthen enamel, which reduces decay risk.
- Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and peanuts, are low in sugar and help stimulate saliva.
- Lean proteins, like chicken, eggs, and white fish contain phosphorus and nutrients that support calcium absorption, which strengthens teeth.
- Fresh fruit, apples are particularly effective; they’re crunch and high water content help rinse away crumbs.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum After Meals
Keep xylitol gum handy. Chewing it after eating or drinking stimulates saliva, which neutralizes acid and helps remineralize enamel. It’s a practical tool between brushing sessions.
When possible, look for ADA-approved, or xylitol-rich gums such as
- Trident and Orbit sugar-free gums are popular in NYC and Brooklyn
- Xylichew for customers who prefer natural ingredients
- PUR Gum for vegan customers who value a non-GMO, aspartame-free option
Bottom Line
Peter Pan Donuts, Radio Bakery, and Hide & Seek are neighborhood staples. Enjoying them doesn’t have to compromise your dental health. Your mouth has natural defense mechanisms. Saliva, enamel, and routine maintenance handle indulgences when you support them properly. The goal should be balance, not perfection.
Have questions?
Brooklyn City Dental is located one block from the Nassau G stop in Greenpoint, next door to Peter Pan. Walk-ins are welcome, or call to schedule your next cleaning (718) 233-1031.