Few people need encouragement to have a glass of wine with dinner. However, here's one for those who might: According to the latest research, red wine may protect you from cavities. Specifically, the seeds from grapes in the wine help prevent their occurrence.
It is estimated that cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss affect 60 to 90 percent of the global population.
Previous studies have shown that grape seeds in wine can slow down the growth of bacteria in the mouth. This led the research team to explore whether they could also prevent the actual onset of cavities, as cavities are caused when bacteria on the teeth form plaque. These bacteria create tartar and produce acid that begins to damage the tooth. Regular tooth brushing, fluoride in toothpaste, and water can help get rid of bacteria and plaque, but the effect is limited. So, with wine, you can't go wrong.
However, don't rush to brush your teeth immediately after that glass of wine to avoid dark stains. This will only increase your chances of keeping those stains forever. The acid in the wine can dissolve tooth enamel, so brushing your teeth right away can contribute to erosion and leave you with stains. Instead, neutralize the acid with a glass of water and avoid swishing the wine around in your mouth.