How Red Wine Can Help Oral Health
For the people who have a glass of red wine each day, they may be
receiving more health benefits than we think. Studies have shown that red wine,
in moderation, can help lower one’s risk for heart disease. As well, that daily
glass may be helping in advancing your oral health by inhibiting gum disease
and tooth decay. So, the next time you have a glass of wine, consider the red!
How It’s Made
Red wine is made from fermented grapes and ranges in various degrees
from dry to sweet, with the alcohol content being anywhere between 10-15
percent. There are chemicals in red wine called proanthocyanidins, which are
phytonutrients that are found in most plants and foods like apples, chocolate,
and grapes. The phytonutrients provide red wine with antioxidants that help
fight off Streptococcus mutans
, the
bacteria linked to tooth decay.
Why It Helps
There is also resveratrol that can be found in grape skin, which can
help treat blood clotting and inflammation in the gums, a known sign of gum
disease. Studies have shown that resveratrol, also found in red wine due to
grape skins, helps prevent this inflammation as well.
If plaque, the sticky, colorless film that can coat teeth, is not
removed daily through brushing and flossing, it can harden and form tartar. This
can lead to bacteria buildup and eventually an infection in the gums. When left
untreated, this can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Studies from Italy found
that red wine helps prevent bacteria from this buildup from clinging to the teeth,
thereby helping prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Other Benefits
Another study has shown that 1-3 glasses of red wine can help lower
blood pressure. Red wine can help reduce risks of cancer, including colon,
basal cell, ovary, and prostate cancer. This wine can also help reduce the risk
of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A study consisting of middle aged and
elderly men and women showed they were less likely to experience depression
after 2-7 glasses of red wine per week.
When to Say When
During the week, you should have at least 1-2 days free of alcohol.
Excessive amounts can wear on tooth enamel and jeopardize oral health. Too many
glasses can lead to dry mouth and leave you at risk for further infection. Also,
you don’t want to grow too dependent on alcohol because it could increase your
risk of liver damage or cirrhosis. This can cause you to gain weight or bloat
while making you more vulnerable to diseases due to your weakened state.
If you prefer to avoid alcohol altogether, you can buy supplements
with antioxidants that help your teeth and overall health. However, if you
prefer red wine, continue to enjoy the occasional glass to celebrate
maintaining great oral health.
Did you know that you can save up to 20 percent off your
dental bills with our New Hampshire discount dental plans
? We
offer individual, family, and employee plans for small business owners. To
learn more, click here.
Copyright: dolgachov
/ 123RF Stock
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