Chocolates & Wine!
BITES FROM DR. BAROTZ
Valentine's Day is this weekend and in case you're not prepared here's a suggestion that will really show you care - Dark Chocolate and Red Wine. Dr. Barotz here.
For years chocolate has been getting a bad rap - high in caffeine, causes acne and migraines, high in saturated fat, etc. The fact is recent research shows one of our favorite indulgences can help prevent cancer and heart disease, and fight tooth decay. It is believed that most of the bad effects of eating chocolate are either overstated or entirely false.
The protein, calcium and phosphate content of chocolate may actually protect tooth enamel, and its naturally-occurring fat content means that the chocolate clears the mouth faster than other candy, reducing the amount of time its sugars remain in contact with tooth surfaces.
It is suggested that the cocoa butter in dark chocolate coats the teeth and helps protect them by preventing plaque from forming. The sugar can contribute to cavities, but no more than the sugar in any other food. It is believed that antibacterial agents in cocoa beans offset the high sugar levels. It is so successful in combating decay that some scientists believe some of its components may one day be added to mouthwash or toothpaste.
Wine lovers everywhere know most of the benefits of drinking wine. I know many who would suggest changing the old nursery rhyme of "an apple a day" to a "glass of wine a day." It is true that the benefits of red wine are numerous and plentiful and here's news to make wine lovers everywhere even happier - red wine may help prevent gum disease.
If you have read my past articles, you know that gum disease is very serious. Left untreated, it is the major cause of tooth loss for adults. According to a recent study, a component of red wine (polyphenols) may help prevent and reverse gum disease. The higher the polyphenols, the better. This could be a boon to Colorado wine makers as high altitude wines are usually richest in polyphenols.
There is one drawback though, that I must warn you about. The same chemical that is being touted as preventing gum disease can cause the enamel to wear away. The acid in the wine softens the enamel on your teeth, so if you brush immediately you can end up scratching your enamel. Wine drinkers can counter the negative effects of wine by drinking a lot of water, avoid keeping the wine in your mouth for too long, and eating something like cheese which provides minerals for the teeth.
So go ahead and give your beloved a box of dark chocolates and bottle of red wine. Just remember that fine wine and chocolates should be appreciated. When eaten as a special treat, with full appreciation, a little can go a long way.
About Dr. Barotz
Dr.
Charles S. Barotz, of Barotz Dental, is a 1980 graduate of Georgetown University School of Dentistry and has dedicated his life to providing the best that dentistry has to offer. Dr. Barotz is continually educating himself and his staff with the newest dental techniques and approaches, in order to provide advanced, state- of-the art, comfortable and personalized dental care. Dr. Barotz has been published and lectures internationally on numerous subjects relating to excellence in dentistry. Barotz Dental is conveniently located downtown Denver at 303 16 th Street (16 th & Court). For more information or to schedule a free consult, call 303-595-4994 or visit www.barotzdental.com.