Eating Cheese May help to prevent Cavities:
Eating dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yoghurt are important to maintain good health, but there has recently been a study which suggests that consuming these foods may help to protect your teeth against cavities.
The study looked at the PH levels in the mouths of its subjects before and after they had consumed milk, sugar free yoghurt and cheese. They discovered that a PH level lower than 5.5 puts a person at risk for tooth erosion, which is a process that wears away the enamel (or protective outside layer) of teeth, however the higher the pH level is above 5.5, the lower the chance of developing cavities.
The subjects were assigned into groups randomly. Researchers instructed the first group to eat cheddar cheese, the second group to drink milk, and the third group to eat sugar-free yogurt. Each group consumed their product for three minutes and then swished with water. Researchers measured the pH level of each subject’s mouth at 10, 20, and 30 minutes after consumption.
The groups who consumed milk and sugar-free yogurt experienced no changes in the pH levels in their mouths. Subjects who ate cheese, however, showed a rapid increase in pH levels at each time interval, suggesting that cheese has anti-cavity properties.
The study indicated that the rising pH levels from eating cheese may have occurred due to increased saliva production (the mouth’s natural way to maintain a baseline acidity level), which could be caused by the action of chewing. Additionally, various compounds found in cheese may adhere to tooth enamel and help further protect teeth from acid.
“It looks like dairy does the mouth good,” quoted from the survey. “Not only are dairy products a healthy alternative to carb- or sugar-filled snacks, they also may be considered as a preventive measure against cavities.”
Of course eating cheese is no substitute for brushing twice daily and taking care of your teeth, but every little helps. Regular visits to your dentist will also help you to maintain good oral health. If you have any issues or questions, or would like to book in for your check up then do not hesitate to contact the practice on 01474 537191 and one of our fantastic receptionists will be happy to book you in.
