Wine Protects Against Tooth Decay

Dr. Steven Goldberg, D.D.S., a practicing dentist from New York City and inventor of the DentalVibe Injection Comfort System, said that red wine’s medicinal properties date back to the ancient Egyptians. Resveratrol, an antioxidant in red wine, is reported to have a protective effect against heart disease and some forms of cancer, but those are internal benefits. Red wine contains flavan-3-ols, or flavanols, which have been shown to reduce bad decay-causing bacteria in your mouth.

Goldberg said that swishing it around offers more protection against cavities than just drinking it.

“To best protect against harmful bacteria in our mouths that cause gum disease and tooth decay, you need to spread the red wine throughout your mouth to ensure it reaches any spot where those bacteria could be lurking,” Goldberg said.

What about tooth staining from red wine?

Goldberg recommends following a red wine wash with a rinse of water to help prevent staining. Or you can just keep a bottle in the bathroom if you’re feeling hard-core about your vino-inspired dental health.

“This will ensure that you get the antibacterial benefits of the red wine, but avoid potentially staining your teeth due to its acidity and color,” he said.

Time to ditch the Listerine?

“Who knows, red wine may just become the next vino wash!” Goldberg said.

Source: sheknows.com

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