Polyphenols May Fight Gum Disease
Earlier this month, scientists reported they had discovered the bacterial mechanism linking gum disease to heart attack. Now, in a month in which gum disease seems to be getting a lot of attention, researchers from Université Laval in Canada report that polyphenols exclusive to the lowland blueberry bush Vaccinium angustifolium Ait. may stop bacterium from growing in dental plaque and help reduce risks for gum disease. What’s more, these same powerful plant nutrients have shown to reduce inflammation and actually help reverse gum disease in a similar manner to antibiotics. While the full therapeutic benefits of blueberries are not yet known, it is encouraging to know that scientists are working on finding safe and effective new treatments for this common disease.
According to the CDC, 14% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have gum disease. By age 60, this percentage increases to 25. Of these, up to 30% have gum disease serious enough to cause heart attacks and other potentially fatal disorders. Will blueberries one day help eradicate this problem? Perhaps. But in the meantime, maintaining a consistent daily oral hygiene routine and visiting Houston dentist Dr. Scott Young every six months remain you most powerful tools against this disease.