The fall season brings a lot of reasons to celebrate, but
Thanksgiving is perhaps the most celebrated and widely-known fall holiday.
Though the reason for its popularity lies mostly in the food, the delights of
Thanksgiving dinner feed more than just your palate and belly. They also feed
the biological reactions of the bacteria that live in your mouth--such as those
that produce acids that destroy your teeth’s protective enamel. According to
research, however, you might find a powerful ally in one of the more commonly-used
Thanksgiving foods, cranberries,
which can help fight tooth decay at a molecular level.
What the Fight is About
Oral bacteria are the reason why food can be such a
destructive force to your teeth. Of the over 600 identifiable kinds of bacteria
in your mouth, Streptococcus mutans are among the most notable for their habit of creating acids out of sugars and
starches. The acids weaken your teeth’s enamel, and sap your teeth of the
minerals they need to replenish their outer layer.
Cranberries—The Secret Weapon
Over the last few decades, and perhaps longer, people have
searched for natural substances to aid in the fight against cavities and other
issues. In this quest, experts have learned that cranberries—a regular find on
most Thanksgiving dinner tables—is one of the more potent natural weapons
against cavities. The berries contain compounds that help block the enzymes of
harmful oral bacteria, like the ones that cause cavities, in order to inhibit
their ability to form dental plaque. By stopping them from sticking together,
cranberries helps reduce the risk of tooth decay forming from he accumulation
of oral bacteria.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a
well-respected and highly experienced general, restorative, and family dentist
in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the
moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office,
and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs.
Whether you and your family are new or returning patients, you can schedule a
consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
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