Too Much Pumpkin Spice Can Harm Your Teeth
Despite its name, pumpkin spice doesn’t actually contain pumpkin. In fact, pumpkin spice is a mixture of spices that typically go into a pumpkin pie to make it sweeter. The fall flavor is a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger and allspice in some instances.
However, it’s important to note that some companies, such as Starbucks, add real pumpkin to their pumpkin spice latte, so it ultimately depends on where you get it. With this in mind, there’s a debate each year about whether or not the name “pumpkin spice” is appropriate, given that the flavor doesn’t often contain pumpkin.
Over the past decade, pumpkin spice has developed a cult following, garnering millions of dollars in revenue each year as consumers visit retailers to fulfill their sweet tooth.
How does pumpkin spice damage your teeth?
Here’s how pumpkin spice lattes can impact your smile:
Excess sugar
A 16-ounce pumpkin spice latte can contain about 50 grams of sugar. According to the World Health Organization, consuming a lot of sugar can lead to dental caries. They occur when bacteria in your mouth metabolize sugars to create acid that removes minerals in the hard tissues in the teeth, such as the enamel and dentine.
If the acid remains on your teeth, it may lead to cavities, leaving holes in your teeth and causing pain or tooth loss.
Coffee
As you already know, coffee can stain your teeth, making them appear yellow. In addition, coffee is acidic, which may increase the risk of cavities and erode your teeth’s enamel. Brushing your teeth right after drinking your pumpkin spice latte reduces staining and prevents tooth damage.
Coffee can also stick to your tongue, causing bad breath or halitosis. When coffee beans are roasted, it creates sulfuric compounds that cause unpleasant breath.