If you like berries, you are going to love the findings of this new study.
Research now shows that just a handful of dark berries like cranberries and blueberries could offer some protection against tooth decay.If you like the sound of that, read on to find out more about what scientists found when they took a look at the compounds present in these little treats…
The (sweet) findings
The scientists who conducted the research found that some of the nutrients present in cranberries and blueberries could effectively provide protection against the particular strand of bacteria that is responsible for accelerating tooth decay. The berries contain natural compounds known as polyphenols, which help to fight off destructive bacteria in the mouth and prevent these bacteria from sticking to the teeth and gums.
The benefits of berries
According to the study, eating dark-coloured berries that contain polyphenols could help to reduce tooth decay, as well as the development of gum disease and the build-up of plaque. Besides that, berries have a number of other health benefits because they are such a good source of antioxidants and fibre.
What could this mean?
The findings of the study suggest that there may be potential for the creation of new oral health care products, such as mouthwashes and toothpastes, that contain the polyphenol compounds found in berries. More research is required, but we may have some exciting new ingredients coming our way in the future!In the meantime, incorporate some nutritious berries in your diet but do remember to enjoy them in moderation, as with all fruits. Unfortunately, highly pigmented foods like blueberries and cranberries can cause teeth to discolour and stain over time. If you have noticed any discolouration on your teeth, get in touch with us as we offer both in-office and take-home whitening treatments.For more news and interesting articles concerning oral health, please keep an eye on our blog.