Does Tea Stain Your Teeth?

Despite all that, you may not be ready to give up drinking tea. So it’s important to look after your teeth to keep the staining to a minimum.  

Drinking tea can cause lasting discoloration of your teeth. That said, it's possible to reduce staining through good healthy oral care habits.  

At home, the simple act of brushing your teeth regularly can help. Brushing twice a day is good but brushing immediately after you drink a cup of tea is even better. Drinking water after a cup of tea can also help rinse away some of the tannins left in your mouth.   

Lighter-colored teas stain less, so switching from black to herbal or green teas can reduce staining. Just know that even lighter teas such as chamomile and hibiscus, if regularly consumed, will discolor your teeth over time.  

Drinking tea through a straw can minimize contact between the tea and your teeth, so there’s less opportunity for them to become stained. This can also help to protect you teeth from acid exposure, which might otherwise contribute to enamel loss and tooth sensitivity.

Now that you're aware that tea can stain your teeth, you might want to think about a teeth whitening process to combat discoloration.   

The simplest approach is using a teeth whitening toothpaste. Some can whiten your teeth up to three shades lighter. And results can start to show within one week.   

Another easy-to-use option is a teeth whitening mouthwash. Just swish it around in your mouth right after brushing to get into those hard-to-reach areas a toothbrush can’t go.

You can also supplement your usual brushing routine with an at-home teeth whitening kit. There are quite a few product types to choose from, such as whitening pens and LED devices. And if you’re looking for even brighter results, you might consider an in-office treatment from your dentist.   

If you’re opting for an at-home product, check in with your dentist first. They can help you choose the right whitening product for you and give you advice on how to use it properly for best results. These important steps will help you to make sure the products you’re using are both safe and effective.   

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.