Seattle and Bellevue Dentist

Researchers say red wine may help keep gums healthy and strong. Though the results have so far only been borne out in the test tube, a team of Canadian scientists believe antioxidant components in red wine and grape seeds have anti-inflammatory effects that may ward off periodontal troubles. Dr. Samsavar who is  one of the few Bellevue Cosmetic Dentist  member of American Association for Dental Research came across a study, presented in Orlando, Fla., at the 35th annual meeting of the American Association for Dental Research. ”This study doesn’t recommend drinking red wine to prevent gum disease” Says Dr. Samsavar from his Bellevue Cosmetic Dentistry office. The red wine has antioxidants. The antioxidants in question are called polyphenols, which are found in many plants. Food sources rich in polyphenols include onions, apples, tea, red wine, red grapes, grape juice, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries, and certain nuts. Red wine has three polyphenols. Experts believe that upwards of 80 percent of Americans are estimated to have some form of gum disease, either in the relatively mild form known as gingivitis or in a more serious form, known as periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic infection involving bacteria present in plaque that persistently coats teeth. Researchers are optimistic that components in red wine can limit the effect of these oral bacteria.

According to the AADR, approximately 15 percent of Americans between the ages of 21 and 50 suffer from periodontitis or gum disease. Among adults over the age of 50, 65 percent are affected. Periodontal disease is an inflamatory response caused by presence of certain bacteria in plaque. Presence of these bacteria irritates the gums and results in a break down of the attachment of gum tissues to teeth. Overtime, this can destroy gum tissues, allowing the infection to progress to bone loss. In addition, plaque that is not removed can combine with other materials and harden into a rough, porous deposit called calculus (tartar). Calculus on the tooth surface, above the gumline, may not contribute to periodontal diseases; but calculus on the root surface below the gums, makes removal of new plaque and bacteria more difficult. Unlike plaque, which you can remove, only a dentist or dental hygienist can remove calculus. In our bellevue cosmetic dental practice Dr. Samsavar does all the cleanings and hygiene since he believes he can take special care of the Porcelain Veneers he has placed on the teeth. During the hygiene appointment the gum disease causing is removed.  

Inflammation is the immune system’s natural response to the presence of such bacteria, Unfortunately, that response also involves the accelerated production of unhealthy molecules called “free radicals.”The production of too many free radicals can lead to a further weakening of gums. The result is inflammation, bleeding, and a gradual tissue and bone decay that can ultimately result in the loss of one or more affected teeth. Red wine polyphenols inhibit key proteins at the cellular level to slow free radical production. They speculate that red wine’s antioxidant punch could be a useful weapon in the fight against gum disease. It should be stressed that these findings are very preliminary.