Tea and Coffee: The Myths and Truths About Their Effects on Teeth

Thursday 20th, July, 2023

For the residents of Tunbridge Wells and coffee and tea enthusiasts around the world, the question about the effects of these beloved beverages on our dental health remains a pertinent one. We at Tunbridge Wells Dental Centre often encounter this query, so it’s time we address it with a deeper dive into the topic.

Are tea and coffee bad for my teeth?

At a glance, you might think that your daily cuppa can erode your pearly whites, but here’s a revelation: tea and coffee, on their own, aren’t the villains they’re often portrayed as! The real mischief maker? Sugar.

Adding sugar to tea or coffee turns your comforting brew into a liquid that’s not so friendly to your teeth. As you sip away, you continually expose your teeth to sugar, allowing harmful bacteria in your mouth to thrive and produce acid. This acid can erode the enamel on your teeth, making them vulnerable to cavities and decay. If you’re indulging in several sugary drinks daily, imagine the hours of potential harm!

But I only enjoy my tea and coffee with sugar.

It’s understandable that some of us need a hint of sweetness in our beverages. For those, we highly recommend choosing a zero-calorie sweetener. And if you want the gold standard among sweeteners from a dental perspective, pick one that’s xylitol-based.

Xylitol doesn’t just offer sweetness without the calories. Unlike regular sugars that provide a food source for harmful mouth bacteria, xylitol inhibits the growth of these bacteria. In fact, it can even reduce the levels of certain harmful bacteria, like Streptococcus mutans, a primary culprit in tooth decay.

However, while xylitol can relieve your teeth from the risks of sugary tea and coffee, it’s essential to note that it can be toxic to pets, especially dogs. So, always store xylitol-based products out of their reach.

But will coffee and tea stain my teeth?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – staining. Yes, it’s true.

Regular consumption of tea and coffee can cause yellowing or darkening of teeth over time. The tannins present in tea, and the chromogens in coffee can latch onto your tooth enamel and lead to these stains.

But here’s the good news: these stains aren’t permanent and can be managed!

Firstly, consider adding milk to your brew. Milk proteins can bind to the tannins, preventing them from staining your teeth as aggressively. But remember, this doesn’t give you the license to neglect your oral hygiene.

For those who are meticulous about maintaining the sparkle in their smile, regular hygiene appointments at Tunbridge Wells Dental Centre can make a world of difference. Professional cleaning can effectively remove surface stains, brightening your smile.

In Conclusion: Balance is Key

Like many aspects of health and wellness, moderation and balance are essential. While it’s clear that unsweetened tea and coffee aren’t the enemy, it’s crucial to be mindful of how we consume them.

By reducing or eliminating sugar, opting for dental-friendly sweeteners, and maintaining regular dental check-ups, you can continue to enjoy your favourite beverages without compromising your dental health.

So, the next time you’re in Tunbridge Wells and fancy a cup of tea or coffee, remember these tips. And for any dental concerns or to keep your teeth stain-free, don’t hesitate to drop by Tunbridge Wells Dental Centre – where we understand and cater to the needs of every tea and coffee lover out there!

PS. We have some fantastic coffee shops here in Tunbridge Wells. Below is a list of our team’s favourite cafes for you to check out:

• Basil
• Even Flow
• The Bicycle Bakery
• Hattons
• The Black Dog
• Momentum
• ArteBianca