Tea is a popular drink that is admired by many for its antioxidants and great teeth. While some people drink coffee on a regular basis, others opt for sweet tea. Recently, we’ve had a few patients ask us our thoughts on sweet tea and its effect on the teeth.
One of the most noteworthy cons of drinking sweet tea is its ability to stain your teeth. If possible, try to drink water after tea or use a straw while drinking it. These may seem strange but they may help you reduce the staining on your teeth.
Since sweet tea is packed with sugar, it may contribute to dental erosion, which is the loss of enamel or the hard outer surface layer of your teeth that helps protect against decay. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, bottled and canned sweet teas may permanently damage tooth enamel. Erosion can lead to sensitive gums, pain, and a number of other uncomfortable side effects.
If you’re an avid sweet tea drinker, we suggest that you switch to unsweetened tea or drink the sweet tea in moderation. While ditching your regular sweet tea habit is easier said than done, it can do wonders for your oral health. You’ll be able to keep your enamel in tip-top shape and significantly reduce your risk of cavities.
Contact River Run Dental
If you have further questions about sweet tea and how it may affect your teeth, we encourage you to call our office today at 804-262-1060.