Improve Your Dental Health with Alcohol

A new study gave more reason for people to enjoy a glass of red wine. Researchers found out that red wine could be good for dental health. The study was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. It suggested that the antimicrobial elements found in red wine were able to kill bacteria in simulated lab tests.

The same effect was also seen with grape seed extract but taking a shot of grape seed oil is not as appetizing as red wine. Cavities, tooth loss, and gum disease are caused by bacteria in the mouth. They form communities of bacteria that can turn into plaque and more difficult to kill. Past study showed polyphenols can slow down bacterial growth.

The theory was put to test under realistic conditions. The Swiss and Spanish scientists grew cultures of bacteria and dipped the biofilms in various liquids such as alcohol-free red wine, red wine with grape seed extract, red wine, 12 percent ethanol and water.

Of the various liquids that were tested, the three kinds of red wine were the most effective at removing the bacteria. The researchers said that the results could be utilized to get the benefits of red wine to battle cavities and use them in products such as toothpaste and mouthwashes.

Keep in mind that red wine can stain the teeth. To avoid permanent stains in the teeth, experts advise drinking sparkling water as well as eating high fiber foods to scrub off the wine before it stains the teeth. People should also skip white wine, which is acidic and act as sandpaper and removes the protective coating of the teeth. They also recommended pairing the red wine with calcium-rich hard cheese to act as wax and polish the teeth. This is a good excuse to drink more wine with cheese.

Photo by Davide Restivo