Green tea has been used for about 4,000 years in Asian cultures as a remedy for all sorts of different ailments. Recently, green tea has become increasingly more popular in America. Scientific research suggests that drinking green tea promotes weight loss, a healthy heart, and could even aid in cancer prevention. Research evidence suggests that green tea is good for yet another aspect of your health. According to a study published in the Journal of Periodontology (the official publication of the Academy of Periodontology) regular consumption of green tea may improve the health of teeth and gums.

Gum Disease Markers

The fascinating study examined the periodontal health of 940 men. The dental health of those who routinely drank green tea was better in many ways than participants who consumed less green tea.Periodontal disease includes inflammation and infection which can spread to the gums and bones that support your teeth. The men examined were between the ages of 49 and 59. Their periodontal pocket depth, clinical attachment loss (CAL) of gum tissue, and bleeding on probing (BOP) were all examined and recorded. The researchers found that the measure of all three periodontal disease indicators was lowered by just one cup of green tea a day.

Many Benefits of Drinking Green Tea

Green tea contains antioxidant called catechins which scientists believe may be the reason green tea reduces the symptoms of periodontal disease. Former scientific research has shown that antioxidants have anti-inflammatory benefits to the body. Green tea is also lower in caffeine than coffee, and is less staining to teeth. All of these benefits as well as the inflammatory decrease found in the mouths of tea drinkers makes the addition of the beverage to your diet a great idea. So brew up a nice cup of the elixir and start sipping.

Visit your Riverside Dentists

Are you overdue for a dental checkup? To schedule your next visit, contact the Riverside dental office by calling 951-273-9580 today. Our Riverside dentists provide family and general dentistry, and our sister practices serve the greater Riverside area.