Evidence supporting the use of: Apple
For the body system: Teeth

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Apples are sometimes promoted for supporting dental health, primarily due to their fibrous texture and high water content, which can stimulate saliva flow and mechanically help remove food particles from teeth. Several dental and nutritional sources acknowledge that eating apples may have modest benefits for oral hygiene compared to consuming sticky or sugary snacks. The act of chewing an apple increases saliva production, which plays a protective role by diluting acids and washing away food debris. However, while apples may help "clean" teeth superficially, their effectiveness is limited compared to proper brushing and flossing. Scientific studies, such as those published in dental journals, suggest that apples do not significantly reduce dental plaque or replace the need for conventional oral hygiene measures. Also, apples contain natural sugars and acids (like malic acid), which, if teeth are not brushed regularly, could potentially contribute to enamel erosion over time. In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and limited evidence supporting the mild oral health benefits of apples, the evidence is not robust, and apples should be considered a supplementary, not primary, means of supporting oral and dental health.

More about apple
More about Teeth