Chocolate may have surprising oral health benefit

Contact: LaDawn Brock, 214-828-8214

DALLAS - Feb. 9, 2009 - Chocolate on Valentine's Day is not only good to the taste, it also may be good for your teeth. 

Cocoa beans contain three substances that contribute health benefits when processed into chocolate. These beneficial elements are flavonoids, polyphenols and tannins. During digestion, flavonoids and polyphenols produce antioxidants that may guard against cancer and heart disease.

For dental health, tannins may prove beneficial. "The tannins interfere with the action of the bacteria on the teeth, which aids in the reduction of cavity formation," said Lisa Harper Mallonee, associate professor at Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry's Caruth School of Dental Hygiene. The healthiest chocolate is dark chocolate. "It has more tannins, flavonoids and phenols - all the good stuff."

Despite chocolate's apparent health benefits, avoid nibbling on your Valentine's Day candy all day long. Moderation is key - one ounce of dark chocolate is considered a serving. For your dental health, limit your snacking to once or twice a day. And don't forget to brush afterward.

Founded in 1905, Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas is a college of the Texas A&M Health Science Center. HSC-BCD is a nationally recognized center for oral health sciences education, research, specialized patient care and continuing dental education. The HSC serves the state as a distributed, statewide health science center that is present in communities throughout Texas.