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(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Want to prevent tooth decay? You might consider beefing up the cranberries in your diet.
Researchers from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry find cranberries contain many substances, including flavonoids, that may keep cavities from forming.
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The investigators explain cavities -- also known as dental caries -- form when bacteria interact with certain foods on the surface of the teeth. The first step in the process is the formation of dental plaque, which is made up of bacteria growing in a polysaccharide matrix. Acid can also be formed by bacteria, which then eats away at the tooth, causing a cavity to form.
Dental caries affect more than 95 percent of all adults and cost the American economy nearly $40 billion every year.
Cranberries contain many substances known to inhibit enzymes linked to plaque formation. These substances can also block the ability of bacteria to stick to the surface of the tooth, prevent acid from forming, and reduce the acid tolerance of cavity causing organisms.
The researchers plan to continue their study of cranberries and their effects on dental health, looking for specific components of cranberries that might one day be incorporated into anti-cavity treatments.
This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, who offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, go to: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.
SOURCE: Presented at the 84th International Association for Dental Research Meeting, Australia, June 28, 2006
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