Tea has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. But while many think it’s “woo” or a placebo effect, green tea in particular has been found to have numerous oral health benefits if drank regularly. If you’re wondering what this soothing beverage can do for your mouth, here are a few proven positives that will help keep you smiling!
Reduced Cavities
Green tea has been found to reduce oral bacteria and even lower the acidity of your saliva. This in turn can help lower your risk of cavities and tooth decay.
Better Gum Health
Studies have shown that drinking green tea promotes better gum health and reduces inflammation and bleeding, helping to control gum disease!
Lower Risk of Tooth Loss
A 2010 study from Japan found that people who drink one or more cups of green tea are less likely to suffer from tooth loss than those who do not.
Combatting Cancer
The antioxidants in green tea have been found to shield the body from cellular damage and cancerous tumor growth. In fact, a recent study from the University of Texas found that green tea extract slowed the progression of precancerous lesions in the mouth, and similar studies in animals have found it can also inhibit cancer growth in other species!
Good Breath
Got bad breath? Green tea can help with that too, because it kills the microbes in your mouth that cause it. In fact, in one British study it was found that green tea did a better job at eliminating bad breath than mints, gum, and parsley seed oil.
If you decide to try green tea for improving your oral health, great! Just remember that it can stain your teeth, so be sure to follow it with a glass of plain water, and brush well to avoid discoloration. We’ll raise a glass to that!
About Dr. Patterson
Dr. Hayley Patterson enjoys the collaboration between herself and her patients that allows them to make informed decisions about their oral health. She is proud to provide a wide range of dental treatments and is currently an active member of the American Dental Association, Colorado Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry.
To schedule an appointment at Colorado Springs Complete Dentistry, please visit our website or call us today at 719-634-3204.