Temperatures in Dallas-Fort Worth and other places are in the 90s, but many Texans are cozying up to their annual cold-weather treat – lattes with pumpkin spices. Especially as National Coffee Day is celebrated tomorrow. 

Hold up before you take that next sip, said Briana “Breezy” Bonney, clinical assistant professor in the dental hygiene program at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas. Your favorite seasonal drink damages your teeth and gums. 

“Lattes with pumpkin spices are like candy, and they are loaded with sugar – about 25 to 30 grams of sugar in an eight-ounce cup with syrup and whipped cream,” Bonney said. “Most lattes served in restaurants and coffee shops are served in amounts much more than eight ounces.” 

Some seasonal concoctions contain a whopping 82 grams of sugar, she said. 

Women shouldn’t consume more than 25 grams of added sugar each day – six teaspoons, according to the American Heart Association. It’s recommended that men consume no more than 36 grams of added sugar – nine teaspoons. 

Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in the mouth, said Bonney, who also has a master’s in nutrition. That produces acids, which eat away at teeth’s enamel. The longer sugar stays on teeth, the more likely cavities will form. 

Lattes are a mixture of brewed coffee or espresso, pumps of vanilla, cinnamon or a nutty syrup and a frothy milk or milk alternative – all loaded with sugar. The beverage is sprinkled with a mixture of sugar and fall spices. 

“Most fall beverages range between 140 (and) 750 calories.” Bonney said. “That is a significant amount of calories for the morning and a significant bit of acid and sugar. “The beverage’s coffee base is naturally acidic too. Not only does it stain teeth, but coffee also wears away at enamel and increases the risk of cavities.” 

A latte is an occasional treat, not a brew for every day. Bonney suggested having a glass of water near and alternate between sips. Drinking the latte with a straw also helps lessen damage to teeth.  

Order smaller sizes, ask for fewer pumps of syrups and opt for sugar-free syrups when available. 

Don’t be tricked by a fall beverage; they are actually dangerously sweet treats in disguise,” Bonney said.