Discovery of natural molecule that may reduce cavities and plaque-causing substances

Many people around the world suffer from problems related to cavities and dental plaque. Countermeasures include brushing your teeth, gargling, and regular dental checkups, but this is not a problem that can be solved in one visit. A team of researchers from Israel's Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, in collaboration with Sichuan University and the National University of Singapore, has identified a naturally occurring molecule that reduces biofilms that cause cavities and plaque by 90%. Did. The paper was published in the peer-reviewed, open-access international journal Antibiotics.

Antibiotics | Free Full-Text | 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM): A Potential Therapeutic Agent against Cariogenic Streptococcus mutans Biofilm

90% Reduction: Scientists Discover Natural Molecule That Eradicates Plaques and Cavities

The main cause of tooth decay is Streptococcus mutans, also known as the 'cavity bacterium .'

Streptococcus mutans grows in the sweet, moist mouth after eating, in the biofilm (collection of microorganisms) that covers the teeth. Biofilm produces plaque that attacks enamel and leads to tooth decay.

Now, a research team from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev has discovered that 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) destroys biofilms by 90%, eliminating the opportunity for Streptococcus mutans to proliferate. did.

According to research, this 3,3'-diindolylmethane has low toxicity, so adding it to toothpaste and gargle can significantly improve dental hygiene.

By the way, 3,3'-diindolylmethane has also been found to have anti-carcinogenic properties.