Dark Chocolate Has Some Benefits for Your Oral Health

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It’s American Chocolate week which means that chocolate will get more than its usual share of attention. But good news for you chocolate lovers, dark chocolate may help your oral health. “Real” chocolate is a good source of polyphenols, natural chemicals that reduce oral bacteria. Polyphenols also act as neutralizers on microorganisms that trigger bad breath. Furthermore, polyphenols have been shown to prevent some bacteria from turning sugar and starches into acid, protecting your teeth from the decay-causing threats acids usually pose.

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The Surprising Oral Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Antioxidants

It seems too good to be true that there is a type of chocolate that can help your teeth. But there is.  A common bacterium in your mouth–oral streptococci–produces acid that erodes your tooth enamel. Dark chocolate has antioxidants that stop bacteria from converting to teeth-damaging acids. These antioxidants form a sort of antibacterial compound. In addition, the cocoa butter in dark chocolate creates a protective coating around your teeth that makes it more difficult for plaque to stick to them.

Inflammation Reducers

Dark chocolate contains four times the amount of antioxidants than green tea. Along with the benefits of antioxidants, they also possess anti-inflammatory properties helping to calm excited oral tissues that are prevalent in gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Everything in Moderation

As great as these benefits of dark chocolate are, it is still not in the category of what is considered a healthy food. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supply you with essential nutrients that fortify tooth health in ways dark chocolate could never do. Dark chocolate still houses lots of sugar and is high in calories. But, in moderation, dark chocolate can be a great end-of-the-day reward, or pick-me-up. The recommended daily amount is one ounce per day.

Safeguard Your Oral Health with Regular Teeth Exams and Cleanings

One of the best things you can do for your smile is to schedule regular dental visits with Young Family Dental. During your appointment, we can:

  • Examine the health of your teeth.
  • Screen for signs of oral cancer.
  • Assess for any oral health diseases or conditions.
  • Apply fluoride to strengthen enamel and help prevent tooth decay.
  • Perform a deep cleaning and root planning to remove plaque and tartar.
  • Take x-rays for hidden decay or periodontal disease.
  • Discuss ways we could help improve your smile (cosmetic bonding, teeth whitening, ClearCorrect orthodontics).
  • And more!

Your oral health is important, which is why you should be selective on who performs your dental care. Our team of highly experienced dentists has been serving Utah families for decades. We stay current with the latest advances in treatment and dental technology. Then, we incorporate them into our practice, so you get premier care. We also provide compassionate care so your experience can be positive.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Young Family Dental understands that each patient is an individual with different needs. That’s why we create a personalized treatment plan for every patient who comes to our clinic. Our dentists offer a one-on-one consultation to go over concerns and discuss options. Our varied service offerings range from traditional oral health care, like cleanings and fillings, to restorative and cosmetic dentistry options. We tailor your treatment to your specific needs, resulting in the beautiful, bright smile you deserve.

Call for a Dental Health Consultation Today

Call or visit any of our five Utah dental offices in West Jordan, Riverton, American Fork, Saratoga Springs or Orem and schedule a personal consultation with one of our dentists to establish a successful home-based oral hygiene plan based on your specific needs.

CALL US TODAY TO LEARN MORE!