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Conventional dietary wisdom tends to focus on the negative rather than the positive. You are often told that you shouldn’t eat various foods. When it comes to dental health, you’re likely to hear “you shouldn’t eat sugar” as the most common tooth preserving advice. However, are there foods that can help fight tooth decay? Luckily, research shows that there is, in fact, a wide range of consumable items that have inherent cavity and gum disease fighting compounds. Examples would be cheese, coconut oil, green tea, and one holiday favorite – the cranberry. Temecula dentists at Oasis Family Dental are here to highlight a Thanksgiving favorite (cranberries) which may have compelling cavity-fighting compounds.

Tooth Decay During the Holidays

Next Thursday, you may not want to watch what you eat. Thanksgiving is one of the most indulgent days of the year in America when it comes to eating. If all goes well, you may be in a tryptophan induced coma by the late afternoon. As you plan out your feast, the list is likely to include the staples: turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, rolls. There are usually plenty of pies, sweet breads, and fudge for dessert options. Naturally all of these sugary and acidic foods and drinks contribute to tooth decay. Though it may add an irresistible tang to your turkey, cranberry sauce is no exception, unfortunately. However, by isolating a compound from the berry itself, researchers may be onto important dental possibilities.

Cranberry Sauce as a Toothpaste?

A study published by a team of scientists from the University of Rochester isolated properties in the cranberry. Compounds from this berry (which is generally quite sour on its own) can disrupt the bacteria that cause cavities. Streptococcus mutans is the name of these germs, and they require a sticky environment to survive, which is why they create plaque. This biofilm comes from germs, food debris, and acid mixing together. Using cranberries, researchers have found the potential to stop S. mutans from forming plaque which means they will have a much harder time adhering to teeth and creating cavities.

Visit your Temecula Dentists

Are you due for a dental checkup? We provide multi-specialty dentistry. Call our 92591 dentist office at (951) 695-2290 to make an appointment. We serve patients in Temecula and all surrounding communities.