Red wine seems to be in the spotlight in health-related news items these days. From helping fight brain toxicity to helping good bacteria produce a probiotic reaction in our digestion. Recently, researchers in Spain have tested these same effects and how they would relate to our teeth and gums and the results seem promising.
We understand the importance of using mouthwash on a routine basis for better oral health but what is the big deal with Red Wine mouthwash?
Benefits of Red Wine
Red wine contains antioxidants, called polyphenols(pol-ee-FEE-nawls), which can help protect our teeth and gums from bad bacteria that are known to cause gum disease and cavities. As they grow in our mouths, these bacteria cling to our teeth and gums and secrete damaging acid. The polyphenols in red wine detach them from our tissues, or, at least, the simulated gum tissues used in this experiment. And the red wine works better than either grape seed or red wine extracts.
Think of it as an anti-adhesive that fights against and repels the bacteria that we are already working tirelessly at defending against. The probiotics research done with wine has been quite extensive thus far and proven that there are many positive aspects of wine that can help us and our health.
Red Wine Does Have Drawbacks
Red wine consumption does come with some dangers for your teeth. Red wine can stain your the teeth, and it’s highly acidic, which increases staining and can erode teeth over time. Alcohol is also not good for your oral health. Alcohol dehydrates the mouth, depriving it of the benefits of saliva. Saliva can kill bacteria and repairs your teeth.
While it does not mean to replace your mouthwash with wine yet, this research does help provide for a promising future where the same ingredients and polyphenols that come from wine, can be used to help produce oral cleaning products that will help our teeth health even further.
Red Wine Alternatives
It is also important to remember, that there are many other drinks and foods that can provide polyphenols to help promote oral health. These may be better choices for those of us under age or who do not enjoy the taste of wine. Coffee and tea have been proven to offer oral health benefits. Plus they’re not as acidic as red wine. Fruits and berries like cherries, blueberries, raspberries, and of course, black grapes may offer similar benefits. Fruit juices are also an option, but remember that fruit juice can be even more acidic than red wine.
While there have been many studies across the years that have shown that there are positives from red wine consumption, we have seen that they don’t tell the whole story. We still have a ways to go to provide an answer to whether red wine improves oral health.
Of course, one of the best ways to improve your oral health is with routine cleanings and checkups with a dentist. If you’re looking for a dentist in Butler, PA, we invite you call (724) 282-4436 today for an appointment with Dr. Bob at Advanced Dentistry of Butler.
