Tannins & Teeth: A Complicated Relationship

Tannins, those undercurrent notes present in wine, tea & more, have a bit of a love/hate relationship with your oral health. 

The Good News First

Tannins can play a role in good oral health. They are natural antioxidants, which can reduce the amount of free radical oxygen atoms in your system, which can be carcinogens. Reducing their presence in your mouth will not only help prevent them from interacting with your teeth & gums, it lowers the overall level in your body as well. 

Another beneficial quality of tannins is their ability to fight bacteria. Tannins make the biosphere of your mouth less tolerable for harmful bacteria. This reduction of bacteria can also lead to less plaque buildup. Evidence is starting to build that this lowers your risk of caries, commonly referred to as cavities. They may even reduce the risk of other infections as well.

The Catch

Tannins aren’t all good, however, at least in the sense that they are often present in acidic drinks. That acidic, slightly sticky or tacky feel you get in your mouth is a sign you need to brush. Prolonged exposure to an acidic environment can reduce or even reverse the beneficial antimicrobial effects tannins have, as prolonged acid exposure can wear on enamel, which doesn’t rejuvenate. So while tannins have a good short-term effect, brushing after drinking acidic beverages ensures things don’t go too far. 

Some tests have shown though that this acid isn’t necessary for a tannin-rich drink. These neutral pH drinks still provide antibacterial properties without risking the same level of decay. Staining, however, may still be a risk.

Tannins can lend to staining teeth. Drinks like wine & tea, which have notable tannin profiles, can stain teeth like dyes if consumed regularly. While teeth whitening may seem the answer, you may not have to go so far. Again, regular brushing to remove residual food & drink can do a lot, especially in combination with regular cleanings. Whitening can be a great option for stains that have already accumulated, but remember that best results come after a hygiene visit with your dentist. 

Research is still being done with tannins & their relation to oral health but as with so many things, moderation is key. Combined with proper hygiene, keeping a balanced diet—including with your beverages—will help protect teeth & provide a longer-lasting natural smile. 

Sources:

https://rspublication.com/ijphc/2014/june14/5.pdf 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9821998/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7564313/

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/foods-stain-teeth-feature