Wine lovers have a new reason to keep on drinking their favorite beverage – it helps prevent cavities. Yes, you read that right. Drinking wine has been linked to decreased cavities, reduced tooth decay, and improved gum health.

Taking a Closer Look at the Study That Discovered How Wine Improves Your Oral Health

In February of 2018, The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry published a study that discussed how wine could help people prevent gum disease and tooth decay. The study was conducted by a team of medical and agricultural researchers in Spain.

The published study discussed that wine, in particular, red wine, contains a micronutrient that – when consumed – dramatically reduces bad bacteria in the mouth. This special micronutrient that is found in red wine is called polyphenol.

Researchers discovered that when polyphenol was consumed by drinking red wine, people experienced fewer cases of gum disease and had fewer cavities. It is believed that gum disease and cavities are prevented because the polyphenol prevents bad bacteria from sticking to the teeth and causing plaque to build up around the teeth and gums. When plaque builds up, it can cause gum inflammation, gum recession, infections, and cavities.

Red Wine has Other Health Benefits Too

The recently published study also indicated that there were other benefits to consuming red wine. The study indicated there could be a link between red wine consumption and a reduced risk of diabetes, improved digestive health, improved cardiovascular health, and increased longevity.

Don’t Go Out and Start Consuming Large Amounts of Red Wine

Just because this new study indicated that red wine may help improve your oral health, it doesn’t mean you should go out and start consuming large amounts of red wine. In fact, you may want to wait.

This is the first study of its kind. More research and additional studies will need to be conducted in order to determine the exact link between red wine and improved oral health. Until the link is discovered, it is best to keep consuming red wine as you normally did before learning about this study.

Consuming Too Much Red Wine Could Harm Your Teeth

Not knowing the link between red wine and improved oral health is just one of the reasons why you should watch your wine consumption. Another reason is that red wine, when consumed in high quantities, could harm your teeth.

Red wine is extremely acidic. If you consume too much red wine, you could weaken the enamel of your teeth. Weakened enamel can lead to chips and cracks, increased cavities, and extreme tooth sensitivity.

In an effort to avoid problems from drinking too much red wine, it is recommended that you consume it only in moderation. This will minimize your risk for experiencing tooth erosion.

Don’t Drink Wine? That is Okay!

Not everyone likes or is legally allowed to drink red wine. That doesn’t mean these individuals don’t get to have to miss out on improving their oral health.

There are a number of other foods and drinks that contain polyphenols. If this micronutrient is connected to improved oral health, it shouldn’t matter if it is consumed by red wine or by eating a specific berry. All that matters is that it is consumed.

Some examples of foods and drinks that contain polyphenols include:

• Black tea
• Green tea
• Coffee
• Lemon juice
• Orange juice
• Cider
• Kiwis
• Black grapes
• Some types of beans
• Cherries
• Blueberries
• Raspberries

Learn Ways You Can Improve Your Oral Health by Scheduling an Appointment with Dr. Shields

Dr. Shields is a holistic dentist who is dedicated to helping people improve their oral health. She creates individual treatment plans that address problems and concerns that are unique to your personal case. In addition to creating an individual treatment plan, Dr. Shields will help you learn various lifestyle changes that you can make to help you improve your oral health.

Dr. Shields offers a variety of services ranging from cleanings and examinations to fillings, crowns, and dental implants that will help you maintain or improve your oral health. Call our office today to schedule an appointment at our office in Jacksonville, Florida. We can’t wait to help you improve your smile!