You might think that raisins, because of their sweet taste, could be harmful to your teeth — but research shows the opposite! Studies conducted at the University of Illinois at Chicago have found that raisins are rich in active plant compounds called phenols, including oleanolic acid, betulinic acid, and bornyl alcohol. These natural substances can inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay (Streptococcus mutans) and gum disease …