Some people refer to a smile as the only curve that sets everything straight. A healthy smile will improve your appeal. Therefore, you need to ensure that you maintain good oral hygiene at all times.
Nobody would want to look at someone with dirty, yellow teeth and poor oral hygiene. Healthy teeth will help to build strong life-long relationships and appropriate social life. One of the foods you can use to get healthy teeth is consuming dark chocolate regularly. Here’s how the chocolate can result in better oral health:
The Role of Antioxidants
The mouth contains a bacterium called oral streptococci, which produces an acid that can eat away your enamel. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, which prevent bacteria from causing damages as they act as antibacterial compounds. This forms the core of dark chocolate teeth benefits. Additionally, the cocoa butter coats the teeth, and this ensures that plaque doesn’t stick.
Some researchers have revealed that dark chocolate has about four times the amount of antioxidants as compared to green tea. Other than preventing the production of plaque, the compounds are effective when it comes to reducing inflammation in the body and preventing periodontal diseases. The bacteria that cause periodontal diseases can also cause other medical complications.
Researchers have also established that antioxidants play a crucial role in the healing and repair of soft tissues in the mouth, including gums and the inner lining of your cheeks. Therefore, taking dark chocolate has long-term dental health benefits.
Dark Chocolate Has High Levels of Tannins
These compounds are found in many foods that we eat at home and are responsible for the bitter taste and the color of dark chocolate. Some of the properties of tannins can help to prevent jaw pain. They also have high levels of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
The properties help to prevent infections and swelling, which is common when someone is suffering from gum disease and other dental trauma complications. Tannins in dark chocolate also speed up the healing process when one experiences dental trauma by constricting blood vessels. Although some people report jaw pain after consuming tannins, this is short-lived.
The compounds are also effective when it comes to the prevention of bacteria from latching on teeth, as this may lead to cavities. This will prevent the formation of plaque. The fact that dark chocolate is less sticky means the chances of developing cavities are low.
Theobromine for Better Oral Health
Several studies have been conducted to establish the benefits of theobromine on dental health. The compound is also found in dark chocolate. For example, some researchers have worked to evaluate the effectiveness of the compound as compared to fluoride.
According to the findings of some of the studies, theobromine offered more protection for the teeth than fluoride. It was also established that it had twice the protective effect on teeth than fluoride.
Another study investigated the surface micro-hardness of enamel after using theobromine, artificial saliva, and fluoride. Scientists found out that when artificial was used, the enamel didn’t result in re-mineralization. On the other hand, theobromine showed a higher rate of mineral gain than fluoride. As a result, some businesses are considering its use in making oral care products.
Finally, although there’re numerous dark chocolate teeth benefits, it’s best enjoyed in smaller quantities. Do you need dental services at a comfortable and professional office? Mountain View Dental is here for you. You can contact us if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment.