Wine has long been regarded as a “healthy” indulgence thanks to its many heart-health benefits, but new research is finding that maybe a glass of red wine might actually help in the inside of your mouth too.
Polyphenols, a natural compound found in berries, grapes and wine, are loaded with antioxidants that can help protect your body from disease. However, researchers are now looking at how polyphenols’ ability to produce healthy bacteria may have an impact on the overall health of your gums and teeth.
In a Newsweek report published on February 23, 2018, researchers looked at how polyphenols found in red wine reacted to oral bacteria most commonly known to cause oral decay and cavities. They then compared these findings to the reaction grape seed and red wine extract had with oral bacteria.
The results found that, “polyphenols were better at deterring bacteria from sticking to cells, similar to those inside our mouths, than the extracts,” as reported by Newsweek.
While BBC News reported that these findings could eventually lead to new dental treatments, it’s too soon to starting popping more bottles in the name of dental health just yet. The study’s authors reported that their results were, “limited by the fact it was done outside of the human body with cells that simulated gum tissue.”
For now, brushing and flossing are still your best defenses against oral bacteria, but who knows, maybe one day a glass of vino will be too!