Cavities can be Avoided by Drinking Red Wine: Study

Drinking red wine can protect against tooth decay, according to a study.

Wine is known to have numerous health benefits; it is good for the heart and blood pressure. In a recent study led by M. Victoria Moreno-Arribas, the author of the book Wine Chemistry and Biochemistry, experts found polyphenols in red wine and grape seeds are capable of fighting cavity causing bacteria in the mouth like streptococcus mutans.

The researchers cultured many form of oral bacteria, created their bio-film and immersed them in containers having red wine with or without alcohol, red wine with grape seed extracts and water with 12 percent ethanol. It was observed that wine with or without alcohol and with grape seed extracts were able to kill dental bacteria.

Dental diseases, caries and tooth loss affects nearly 60 to 90 percent of the people around the world. Most oral infections and decay occur due to mild formation of plaque that produces acid and damages the teeth. Dental and oral hygiene products like toothpastes containing fluoride are not all that effective. Mouth washes and antimicrobial rinses alter the color of the gums and harm taste buds.

Past trials suggest polyphenols can slow the bacterial formation in the mouth leading to cavities. These findings inspired researchers to conduct the current trial.

According to the data by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, dental caries are common in 92 percent of the American adult population. Almost five percent of the adults aged between 20 and 64 have no teeth. The condition is more severe among Caucasians from high income families and education.

The authors believe the study results may initiate development of new organic products and treatments without side effects to curb the incidences of oral diseases.

More information is available online in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

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