Pinch Yourself: Treats That Are Unbelievably Good For Your Teeth

We all know about the crucial role food plays in maintaining overall health. Having a balanced, healthy diet not only makes your body feel healthy, but also provides peace to your mind. However, not many people know that our eating habits and food choices have a direct impact on our dental health. Sticking to a healthy diet can curtail the chances of tooth decay and periodontal disease.
According to a number of studies, there are 3 dietary foods that possess cavity-combating properties. And you will be amazed to learn that they’re not fruits and vegetables.  Keep reading below to unveil 3 treats that are unbelievably good for your teeth:

Dark Chocolate

Cocoa bean it is. We all have heard a little about the health benefits of cocoa beans. Given that dark chocolate is made using these beans, they comprise antioxidants such as polyphenols, tannins etc. that help neutralize the bacteria in the mouth. Tannins are anti-oxidants that give dark chocolates a bitter-sweet taste, also preventing bacteria from sticking to the teeth enamel.  Furthermore, Polyphenols possess anti-microbial properties that reduce the total number of bacteria present in the mouth.
It is these bacteria that lead to periodontal disease and halitosis. So, when buying dark chocolate for yourself, make sure you buy ones that have 70% or more cacao content.

Red Wine

This may seem hard to believe but it’s true. Red wine also comprises a host of healthy anti-oxidants, including tannins. As per a study reported in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, it was revealed that red wine (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) can suppress bacterial growth that develops into plaque.  This study also concluded that grape seed extract possessed the same bacteria-combating properties as red wine.


Black Coffee

According to a study that recently took place in Rio de Janeiro’s Federal University of Brazil, black coffee also comprises properties that can reduce the growth of oral bacteria. This study made use of infant teeth (which were given to the university as donations). The teeth were exposed to various substances and bacteria that lead to the formation of bio-films.

The study concluded that Coffea canephora extract, commonly found in approximately 30% of all the coffees in the world, possessed the ability to breakdown plaque layer. In addition, coffee also comprises tannins, the same anti-oxidant found in dark chocolate and red wine.
Does it all sound too good to be true? In the case of slightest amount of skepticism, make way to our professional and experienced dentists who will guide you to a healthy, balanced and teeth-friendly diet. Call (301) 353-8890 now to schedule an appointment with one of the finest family dentists in Germantown, MD.

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