Red wine is again in the health news, this time regarding its benefits for preventing gum disease. The exact beneficial components are found in the tipple, called polyphenols, these are thought to target molecules which attack cells causing periodontal disease. Gum disease affects nearly 15% of people between the ages of 21 to 50, and increases to 65% for people over age 50. While the news is exciting, experts are warning against gargling with wine instead of a regular regimen of flossing and brushing. On the one hand moderate red wine consumption has been associated with a  reduction in the risk of heart attacks. But on the flip side, large intakes of red wine have been linked to mouth cancer. Another con for red wine is that long term exposure can actually cause enamel erosion due to the acidity. Red wine is not the only delectable to contain  polyphenols, they can also be found in cocoa and green tea.