Wine prevents cavities, new study reveals

Scientists have discovered that some chemicals found in red wine can inhibit the sticking of cavity-causing bacteria to teeth. FILE PHOTO

Taking a glass of wine after a meal can help to prevent cavities and gum diseases, a new study has shown.

Scientists have discovered that some chemicals known as polyphenols found in red wine, can inhibit the sticking of cavity-causing bacteria to teeth, thus reducing the prevalence of cavities and other tooth and gum diseases.

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In a paper called the ‘Inhibition of Oral Pathogens Adhesion to Human Gingival Fibroblasts by Wine Polyphenols Alone and in Combination with an Oral Probiotic,’ published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry last week, Adelaida Esteban-Fernández and her team found that the polyphenols in wine restrict the presence of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

In nature, plants and fruits produce polyphenols, which are anti-oxidants, to ward off infection by harmful bacteria and other pathogens.

Wine has also been shown to aid in the digestion of food besides promoting the general wellbeing of the digestive system when the polyphenols combine with bacteria in the gut.

In the study, the polyphenols were tested on their own as well as in a combination with an oral probiotic (good bacteria) Streptococcus dentisani, to see their effect on the cavity causing bacteria in the mouth.