Our friend recently recommended peppermint tea, and we decided to give it a try. There’s just something so refreshing about mint teas, and we weren’t disappointed. It’s become part of our mid-afternoon ritual and the perfect excuse for a work break. But a recent study concluded that herbal teas can damage our teeth, and it’s the last thing we want – oral hygiene issues thanks to our favourite hot beverage! We all know the dangers of drinking sugary drinks, but do we also need to protect our oral hygiene from teas? With that in mind, we wanted to find out does peppermint tea stain teeth or can we enjoy it without worrying?
What’s in Peppermint Tea?
Peppermint tea is made by steeping peppermint leaves in hot water. It’s simple to make and caffeine-free which makes it, much like chamomile, suitable for drinking throughout the day and well into the evening. You can also buy peppermint tea as loose leaf or in teabag form. You’ll find them in most grocery stores. Peppermint teabags last ages, too! We love its refreshing and tangy taste, and it reminds us of traveling in the Middle East and North Africa. For us, it’s ideal for sipping out in the sunshine, but it’s a lovely cool weather drink, too.
Does Peppermint Tea Stain Teeth?
No, it doesn’t. This is because there aren’t any tannins in peppermint tea. Tannins are described by Heathline as ‘chemical compounds… responsible for giving tea its dry, somewhat bitter flavor and providing color in certain types of tea.’ Tannins are commonly found in coffee, some teas and even red wine, but not inside peppermint tea.
But it’s worth being aware of tannins because they stain the enamel of your teeth. Enamel is porous and can absorb what you’re eating and drinking. If you’re regularly drinking beverages with tannins, then this will stain your teeth and this includes black teas.
It’s not just tannins, either. Acidity may also be responsible for teeth stains. Fortunately, peppermint tea is alkaline, so you’ve nothing to fear there, either.
Peppermint tea won’t stain your teeth but it’s worth being aware that other teas do. Most of us drink a variety of different teas. Additional dental hygiene practices may help reduce the impact of tannins on tooth enamel. If you add sugar or honey to your peppermint tea, then it’s a good idea to brush more regularly (especially after drinking).
It’s worth mentioning that peppermint can help dental hygiene. It’s great for freshening your breath and there’s even been some evidence that it helps reduce the bacteria that cause gum disease and plaque.
Do you need to brush your teeth after peppermint tea?
Peppermint tea doesn’t contain tannins so there isn’t the need to brush your teeth after drinking it.