Everyone knows that
dried fruit can cause problems for your teeth; in fact, it wasn’t long ago that
dentists, along with the rest of the public, believed that raisins promoted
tooth decay. However, recent studies have indicated that raisins may actually
be good for your pearly whites while helping to fight tooth decay.
The research that was
conducted at the University of Illinois in Chicago discovered that there were
certain chemicals in raisins that helped suppress oral bacteria growth associated
with tooth decay and gum disease. You heard that right, according to
researchers, raisins could even help prevent gum disease.
Sticky and sweet
foods, such as apricots, figs, mangos, pineapples and other dried fruit are
known to lead to dental caries and tooth decay as the bacteria that lives in
our mouth thrives on any food that is left on your teeth. Sticky and sweet
foods actually produce acid eating away the enamel on your teeth. Over time,
that acid will eventually destroy the enamel causing tooth decay.
Raisins are sweet and
sticky, but because they mainly contain glucose and fructose types of sugar,
not sucrose, which your dentist will tell you are one of the main culprits of
oral diseases caused by sugar, they are not as bad.
The studies have
dispelled the myth that all sticky and sweet foods are bad for your teeth, in
fact, some researchers believe that raisins may actually act like a teeth
cleaner just like bananas and apples do. The same study determined that raisins
are able to protect your teeth because they reduce acidic exposure.
Although raisins are
better for your teeth than other types of dried fruit it is important to
remember that any food particles that remain on your teeth will eventually
cause tooth decay.
Your dentist
recommends that you brush twice a day using fluoridated toothpaste and that you
floss once a day as well. Other good oral health habits include a mouthwash
recommended by the American Dental Association, and a good healthy diet that is
loaded with fruits and vegetables. Regular checkups with your dentist along
with twice-yearly professional cleanings should also be part of your oral
health routine.
