A Valentine’s Toast to Red Wine

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, you may expect us to advise against the chocolates and red wine for your dental health. And while we all know that red wine can stain teeth over time, there are actually many oral health benefits to red wine!

Chemicals in red wine called proanthocyanidins have antioxidant properties and may prevent the bacteria Streptococcus mutans from sticking to the teeth inside the mouth. Bacteria are always present in the oral cavity, but how the bacteria can interact with the teeth depends largely on diet and brushing habits. And it looks like red wine is working in your favor!

In addition, red wine is known to include antioxidants that reduce inflammation throughout the body, leading to better heart health as well as reduced incidence of gum disease or gingivitis. So if you really care for your loved one this Valentine’s Day, cheers! Toast to Dr. Brazdo and a robust love of your favorite red wine!