Which tea stains teeth the most?

Black tea generally stains the most because it tends to be higher in tannins and darker pigments. Dark oolong and pu-erh can also stain, especially with frequent drinking.

Does green tea stain teeth?

Green tea can stain teeth, but usually less than black tea. Over time it may contribute to a faint grey or dull tone rather than darker brown stains.

Does white tea stain teeth?

White tea is generally low in tannins and is less likely to stain teeth compared with black tea. Many people find it causes little to no noticeable staining with normal consumption.

Do herbal teas stain teeth?

Many herbal teas (tisanes) have very low tannins and tend to stain the least. Options like chamomile, peppermint, ginger, and rooibos are often good choices if you want minimal staining.

Does rooibos stain teeth?

Rooibos is naturally red, but it typically stains far less than black tea because it contains very low levels of tannins. It’s often one of the best tea-like options for people concerned about staining.

Why can tea stain more than coffee?

Even though coffee is darker, tea can cause staining quickly because many teas contain more tannins. Tannins help pigments stick to enamel, which can make stains accumulate over time.

How can I prevent tea from staining my teeth?

To reduce staining: avoid sipping tea for long periods, rinse with water after drinking, wait about 20–30 minutes before brushing, consider adding milk to black tea, and use a straw for iced tea to reduce contact with front teeth.

Does Tea Stain Teeth?

Q: Does tea stain teeth?

Yes, some teas can stain teeth. Tea contains tannins and natural pigments that can cling to enamel and cause surface (extrinsic) discoloration over time. Staining risk depends on the tea type, how often you drink it, and your oral habits.

Q: Does tea permanently damage teeth?

Tea staining is usually superficial (extrinsic) and reversible. Professional cleanings can remove surface stains, and whitening can further brighten teeth. If you’re concerned, a dentist can confirm whether discoloration is surface staining or something else.

February 7, 2026

Many tea drinkers eventually notice something worrying: does tea stain teeth? The short answer is yes — some teas can stain teeth. But the real story is more nuanced: certain teas stain heavily, while others barely stain at all.

If you drink tea daily, you don’t need to stop. You just need to understand why staining happens and which teas cause it. If you’re exploring different options, browse our full tea selection here: Tea Collection.

Why Tea Stains Teeth

Tea stains come from two natural compounds: tannins and pigments (chromogens). Your enamel isn’t perfectly smooth — it has microscopic pores. Tannins bind to these pores, and pigments can settle in, gradually causing yellow or brown discoloration.

Tannins — plant polyphenols that can cling to enamel
Pigments (chromogens) — molecules that can darken tooth surfaces over time

This is called extrinsic staining (surface staining), not permanent damage.

Which Teas Stain Teeth the Most

In general: the darker and more oxidized the tea, the stronger the staining potential.

Black Tea — The Biggest Stainer

Black tea tends to have a higher tannin concentration than other traditional teas. That deep color and bold taste also mean a higher staining risk, especially if you sip slowly throughout the day.

Pu-erh Tea — Heavy but Slower

Pu-erh is very dark but can stain less aggressively than black tea cup-for-cup. Still, long-term drinkers may notice gradual darkening over time.

Dark Oolong Teas

Heavily roasted or oxidized oolongs can stain moderately, especially when consumed multiple times per day.

Teas That Stain Moderately

Green Tea

Green tea can cause staining over time, but usually less than black tea. Instead of brown stains, it may contribute to a faint grey or dull tone in some cases.

White Tea

White tea is generally lower in tannins. Many people find it causes little to no noticeable staining, even with regular use.

Teas That Barely Stain (or Practically Don’t)

Herbal Teas (Tisanes)

Many herbal infusions have minimal tannins and very low staining potential, making them a great choice if you want tea daily without worrying about your smile. You can shop these categories here: Herbal Tea Collection and Rooibos Collection.

Rooibos
Chamomile
Peppermint
Ginger

Rooibos, despite its red color, typically stains far less than black tea because it contains very low levels of tannins.

Why Tea Can Stain More Than Coffee

Coffee is darker, yet many people find tea causes staining more quickly. A key reason is tannins: tea can be higher in tannins, and tannins can help pigments stick to enamel more easily.

How To Drink Tea Without Staining Teeth

1. Don’t Sip Constantly

Frequent exposure can stain more than total quantity. A single cup is often better than slowly sipping for hours.

2. Rinse With Water After

Swishing water can help wash away tannins and pigments before they cling to enamel.

3. Avoid Brushing Immediately

Wait about 20–30 minutes before brushing. Brushing right away can spread pigments into enamel that may be slightly softened.

4. Add Milk (For Black Tea)

Adding milk can reduce staining for some people because milk proteins can bind to tannins.

5. Use a Straw for Iced Tea

Using a straw can reduce contact with the front teeth.

Does Tea Permanently Damage Teeth?

No. Tea staining is usually superficial and reversible. Professional cleaning or whitening can remove surface stains effectively.

Tea stains don’t necessarily mean tooth damage. However, if you’re concerned about tooth color changes, a dentist can help confirm whether stains are extrinsic (surface) or related to other factors.

Quick Comparison: Tea Types and Tooth Staining Level

Here’s a quick look at how common tea types compare for teeth staining potential.

Tea Type	Staining Level
Black tea	High
Pu-erh	Medium-High
Dark oolong	Medium
Green tea	Low-Medium
White tea	Low
Rooibos & herbal	Very low

Final Answer

Yes — tea can stain teeth, but only certain types do significantly. If staining worries you, favor lighter teas or herbal infusions and rinse with water after drinking. You can enjoy tea daily and still keep a bright smile.