Today is World Chocolate Day, but is chocolate really as bad as it is known to be for your teeth?
Cocoa has been used throughout history in the medicinal field due to its properties as a cardiac stimulant, muscle relaxant, vasodilator and diuretic. Now we also know the benefits it can bring to our teeth as long as we choose one that contains at least 70% chocolate, but ideally from 85%. This way you will avoid ingesting as little sugar as possible, which is what damages your teeth.
Cocoa contains an element called theobromine that contributes to the remineralization of enamel and reduces the load of streptococcus mutans, the main microorganism present in dental caries. Therefore, consumed in moderation, cocoa could prevent the appearance of dental caries and sensitivity.
Despite this good news for chocolate lovers… we must not forget that the best prevention is proper dental hygiene and visiting our dentist at least once a year!
Dr. Elena Lorenzo
