Polyphenols constitute one of the most common groups of substances in plants. Polyphenolic compounds have been reported to have a wide range of biological activities, many of which are related to their conventional antioxidant action; however, increasing scientific knowledge has highlighted their potential activity in preventing oral disease, including the prevention of tooth decay. The aim of this review is to show the emerging findings on the anti-cariogenic properties of polyphenols, which have been obtained from several in vitro studies investigating the effects of these bioactive molecules against Streptococcus mutans, as well as in vivo studies. The analysis of the literature supports the anti-bacterial role of polyphenols on cariogenic streptococci, suggesting (1) a direct effect against S. mutans; (2) an interaction with microbial membrane proteins inhibiting the adherence of bacterial cells to the tooth surface; and (3) the inhibition of glucosyl transferase and amylase. However, more studies, particularly in vivo and in situ, are necessary to establish conclusive evidence for the effectiveness and the clinical applications of these compounds in the prevention of dental caries. It is essential to better determine the nature and distribution of these compounds in our diet and to identify which of the hundreds of existing polyphenols are likely to provide the greatest effects.

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The aim of the present study was to test in vivo the effectiveness of an experimental green tea extract in reducing levels of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in saliva by means of selective culture medium. Sixty-six healthy patients ranging in age from 12 to 18 years were recruited and randomly divided into two groups: Group A (n=33) and group B (n=33). Group A subjects were asked to rinse their mouths with 40 mL of an experimental green tea extract, for 1 minute, three times a day for a week, whereas Group B subjects were asked to rinse with 40 mL of a placebo mouth rinse. Saliva samples were obtained at baseline, 4 days, and 7 days. The counts of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli were investigated by chair-side kits. Data were statistically processed. A regression binary logistic analysis was done. The statistical significance level was established at P<.05. The experimental group showed a statistically significant reduction in colony counts of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli relative to the control group. These findings showed the efficacy of a green tea extract against cariogenic oral flora, opening a promising avenue of clinical applications in the preparation of specific and natural anticariogenic remedies.

Results demonstrate that CPPs are able to promote remineralisation of early enamel lesions.

The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo whether short-term consumption of commercial yogurt modifies the levels of salivary mutans streptococci and lactobacilli in young subjects. A total of 84 volunteers were selected and divided into two groups (test and control). Subjects from the test group were asked to eat a pot of commercial yogurt twice a day for 2 weeks. No dietary restrictions, except a prohibition on eating yogurt and other fermented dairy products, were required to the subjects from the control group. The salivary colonisation of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli was investigated by chair-side kits at baseline, and after 1 and 2 weeks. Data were statistically processed. A statistically significant reduction in mutans streptococci counts was observed in the test group compared with the control group. No effects on the levels of lactobacilli were noted. Daily consumption of yogurt for 2 weeks may decrease the salivary levels of mutans streptococci.