UK consumers have been warned that choosing cheap tea from supermarkets might save them money in the short-term, but drinking excessive amounts of this kind of tea might be bad for their teeth, the NHS Choices website said.
According to a new study, cheaper tea brands, especially economy ‘own-brand’ supermarket tea, contain higher levels of fluoride. While the mineral is essential for strong and healthy teeth and bones, excessive levels of fluoride can lead to a condition known as fluorosis. Some of its symptoms include discoloration of the teeth, bone pain and stiffness, NHS Choices noted.
The research, conducted by a team of scholars at the University of Derby in partnership with the former Health Protection Agency, found that consuming a liter of cheap tea a day can exceed the recommended daily dose of fluoride.
However, researchers claim that the study did not actually prove that supermarket tea brands damage teeth. They suggested that the increased level of fluoride in economy blends might be explained by the fact that these brands use older leaves of the tea plant, which naturally contain more fluoride.
According to the NHS Choices website, despite the lack of official guidance, many experts recommend that people consume a maximum of three mugs of tea per day.
Overall, fluorosis is an extremely rare condition in the UK since drinking water contains very small amounts of the mineral, the website concluded.
Similar Posts
HOW IS ALCOHOL DAMAGING YOUR TEETH AND GUMS?
Most People Are Unaware Of The Damaging Effects Of Alcohol on Oral Health A survey has revealed that only 16% of people have thought about the harmful effects alcohol may be having on their teeth and gums, reports Dentistry Today.
Dental experts believe that drinking just one glass of wine per day could lead to problems with oral health.
TIPS FOR HEALTHY TEETH
Having a white and shiny smile can be great for boosting confidence, as well as being an important asset to your overall health. Top Tips for taking Good Care of your Teeth: Make regular trips to your dentist.
It is recommended that you visit twice a year, though experts advise that more frequent trips to the dentist, such as once every three months, will help to keep your teeth healthy.
WHAT IS FLUOROSIS AND HOW CAN I PREVENT IT?
Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects teeth in the first eight years of their growth. Fluorosis isn’t a disease and because it’s usually mild and is something a dental professional can detect.
“Mild fluorosis may make visible changes visible only to a dental professional who knows what to look for.” Fluorosis is caused by overexposure to fluoride. Fluoride can be found in toothpaste and other mouth-based products.
FIZZY DRINKS IN LARGE AMOUNTS CAN DESTROY TEETH
Most people are aware of the damaging effect that fizzy drinks have on their health and the fact that they have been linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
However, what many people still do not realize is the negative impact these beverages can have on their teeth.