Grape seed extract found to prevent tooth decay and extends life of dental fillings

(NaturalHealth365) Are you concerned about the health of your teeth?  Well, grape seed extract is just another example of how good nutrition can help keep your teeth strong.  If you’ve ever had a tooth repaired by a dentist, you’ll want to read this report – very carefully.

Few fillings last a lifetime, whether they are made of amalgam materials or composite resin. Amalgam, which is a combination of metals, tends to be longer-lasting.  But, its content of mercury and other toxic materials make it a far less desirable choice.

Composite resin is a more appealing dental filling material in many ways.  Its blend of plastic and fine glass particles can even be tinted and adjusted to perfectly match your existing tooth color.  The only (minor) downside is that composite resin fillings tend to last only half the time of amalgam fillings. (but, still a small price to pay for protecting your health)

Dental fillings usually fail due to secondary cavities

However, research is showing that natural compounds contained within grape seed extract could be used to help strengthen the dentin within the teeth. This in turn could increase the lifespan of composite resin fillings. The current research about grape seed extract was conducted by the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry.

The dentin portion of the teeth forms the majority of their calcified extracellular tissue and is located right underneath the hardest portion of the tooth, the external enamel.  In addition, dentin is comprised mostly of collagen – the same protein that gives structure to the skin and connective tissues.

Composite resin fillings must bind to the dentin; however, the interface between the two can become weak, paving the way for tooth restorations to break down.

When fillings fail, what usually happens is that tooth decay has formed around it, compromising the seal between the tooth and the filling. Reinforcing the interface in the dentin layer sets the stage for a better bond and a longer lasting restoration.

Flavonoids in grape seed extract support tooth resin in adhering to dental fillings

In the study, grape seed extract was found to effectively increase the strength and integrity of the dentin layer. This allowed it to be a better receptacle for composite fillings.

The researchers believe that the effectiveness of grape seed extract in preventing tooth decay and preserving dental fillings is due to its support in the self-repair process within teeth. It seems that damaged collagen can repair itself faster in the presence of plant-based flavonoids called oligomeric proanthocyanidins.

Grape seed extract is particularly rich in these compounds. It assists in interlocking the collagen-rich dentin and resin of the fillings – creating better adhesion and durability of the filling.

Use grape seed extract to help prevent tooth decay and increase the lifespan of dental fillings

Over 90 percent of U.S. adults have had at least one cavity.  But, millions of people have this problem – and don’t even know it!

Cavities form when bacteria produces acid that in turn erodes tooth enamel minerals faster than it can self-repair. Secondary cavities – around the margin of the filling – are the most common causes of failed tooth restorations.

If you have composite resin fillings, consider using grape seed extract to increase their lifespan and see a well-trained, biological dentist for any repairs that are needed.  By the way, another related study found that Chinese red pine root bark extract could also have similar tooth-strengthening properties.

Of course, to keep your teeth healthy, minimize the consumption of processed sugars, eating a diet rich in minerals and maintain good oral hygiene habits like brushing with a drop or two of essential oils (daily) to keep your mouth fresh and clean.

Sources for this article include:

ScienceDaily.com
UIC.edu