Whether you’re a longtime tea drinker or recently started enjoying the beverage, it helps to know how it affects your mouth. Green, black, oolong, white, and other types of tea have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here’s what dentists want you to understand about the beverage and its relationship with your mouth.

How Tea Affects Your Oral Health

1. Stains Teeth

Tannins, or yellow-brown organic substances, give teas their dark hues and can discolor your teeth, especially if the enamel surfaces feature tiny grooves and pits from erosion. Avoid stains by using a straw or drinking water after finishing a cup of your favorite tea. If possible, brush your teeth to further reduce your staining risk.

2. Reduces Gum Inflammation

The polyphenol known as catechin in most teas contributes to pink, healthy gums. This antioxidant in green tea has been shown to reduce gum inflammation. Less inflammation lowers the risk of gingivitis and gum disease, with the latter risking tooth loss if you don’t receive timely treatment. Enjoy your favorite green teas—minus the sugar—to further protect your gums and help prevent tooth decay.

3. Causes Enamel Erosion

Sweetened teas, such as the bottled versions available at grocery, retail, and convenience stores, contain refined sugars that contribute to enamel erosion and tooth decay. Rather than coating your teeth with sugar, dentists suggest brewing tea at home—such as white, green, or black tea—without additives. Keep water close by to rinse your mouth.

4. Lowers Oral Cancer Risk

Drinking tea can lower your cancer risk, including your risk of oral cancer. The antioxidants in green, white, and oolong teas inhibit tumor growth and reduce free radical activity that causes cell damage. And, since tea also kills bad breath-causing bacteria, you’ll enjoy a fresher mouth, too.

Discuss your tea habits with the dentists at Beard & Holmen to ensure you reap the most benefits. The Waterloo, IL dental practice has served the region for over 25 years with Dr. Darryll Beard and Dr. Charles Holmen, members of the American Dental Association and St. Clair Dental Society. Call the family-oriented dental practice today at (618) 939-7181 to make an appointment, or visit the dentists online for patient forms. Get more dental care tips on Facebook.