Coffee with sugar is especially harmful to tooth enamel because it combines the drink’s acidic effects with a nutrient source for bacteria that damage teeth. This was stated by dentists Julie Cho from Mount Sinai Hospital and Mark Wolff from the New York University College of Dentistry. The experts were quoted by Infobae.

According to Cho, coffee contains tannins that stain enamel. This effect is particularly noticeable in people with more porous enamel, as pigments penetrate its structure more easily, causing teeth to darken faster.

Mark Wolff added that the beverage also negatively affects enamel due to its acidity. An acidic environment gradually weakens its structure, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth sensitivity. In addition, coffee can cause dry mouth, and a lack of saliva contributes to plaque buildup and bacterial growth.

Specialists emphasized that coffee with added sugar poses particular danger. Sugar serves as a food source for bacteria, which produce acids during their metabolic processes. These acids further soften and damage enamel, intensifying the harmful effects of the drink.