Is It Safe to Drink Tea Right After Brushing? What Studies Say
Love Morning Tea? Don’t Drink It Right After Brushing: Here’s the Science: Everyone loves to drink tea early in the morning. Every Indian’s morning begins with a cup of tea. Be it green, black, or milk tea, everyone can’t resist a cup of tea. The thought often crosses our minds: is bed tea better, or is it better to drink tea immediately after brushing your teeth? People usually drink tea just moments after brushing their teeth, but have you ever wondered if it’s good for your teeth? A study has revealed this.
Morning Tea After Brushing: This Daily Habit Might Be Harming Your Teeth
1. Tea is a Morning Habit for Most Indians
Every Indian morning often begins with a cup of tea—green, black, or milk tea. While this habit is comforting and energizing, many drink tea just moments after brushing. But is this good for dental health?
2. Brushing Makes Teeth Temporarily Sensitive
According to dental experts, brushing your teeth makes the enamel slightly sensitive. This is because brushing, especially with abrasive toothpaste, slightly softens the tooth surface.
3. Tea Can Damage Tooth Enamel
Tea contains tannins and is slightly acidic, especially if mixed with lemon. Drinking it right after brushing can damage the softened enamel, leading to erosion and tooth staining.
4. Fluoride Protection Gets Washed Away
Toothpaste contains fluoride, which helps strengthen teeth. But if you drink tea immediately after brushing, the tea can wash away the fluoride layer before it gets a chance to protect your teeth.
5. Increased Risk of Yellowing and Sensitivity
Tannins in tea stick to teeth more easily when enamel is softened. This increases the chances of yellowing, staining, and long-term sensitivity.
6. Wait 30–60 Minutes Before Drinking Tea
Dental studies suggest that you should wait at least 30–60 minutes after brushing before drinking tea or any acidic beverage. This gives your enamel time to re-harden and better absorb fluoride.
7. What to Do in the Meantime
- Rinse your mouth with plain water after brushing.
- If you’re hungry, eat something light and calcium-rich, like milk or yogurt, which helps balance pH levels in the mouth.
- Avoid acidic or sugary drinks right after brushing.
While tea is a beloved morning ritual, drinking it right after brushing your teeth can harm your enamel. To protect your smile, it’s best to wait a while before sipping your morning tea.
