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Study: Red Wine Prevents Cavities

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – It might turn your teeth blue, but it turns out red wine actually prevents cavities.

A new study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry claims the antioxidants in red wine can help eradicate bacteria and thus prevent tooth decay.

The researchers reportedly grew cultures with bacteria prevalent in certain dental diseases then dipped those cultures into different liquids including red wine, red wine sans alcohol, red wine spiked with grape seed extract and water containing 12% ethanol.

Apparently, red wine – both with and without alcohol – and wine with grape seed extract were the most effective at killing off the bacteria and thus, preventing dental decay.

Prevention breaks it down further, explaining that "brushing and fluoride rinses have limited effect, and many antimicrobial rinses can change the color of the gums, making it less likely people will continue to use them -- which is why researchers continue to search for more appealing alternatives."

Interestingly enough, a recent study found eating cheese also prevents cavities, so feel free to indulge in some cheese with your vino – in moderation, of course!

To read more on the study, click here.

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