Beverages Containing Plant-Derived Polyphenols Inhibit Growth and Biofilm Formation of Streptococcus mutans and Children’s Supragingival Plaque Bacteria

Abstract

Objectives: Polyphenols in edible berries and tea plant (Camellia sinensis) suppressed virulence factors of oral pathogens. We investigated if the commercially marketed plant polyphenols-containing beverages inhibited growth and biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans and children’s dental plaque. Methods: Supragingival plaque collected from 16 children (7–11 years) were suspended in TSB for testing. Test beverages included 26 marketed packaged teas, ready-to-drink bottled raspberry flavored teas and cranberry juice cocktails with and without added sugars. Their effects on in vitro growth and biofilm formation of S. mutans and children’s plaque bacteria were determined after 24–48 h at 37 °C anaerobically in CDM with or without sucrose. Results: Brewed infusions from black, green and cinnamon or raspberry flavored teas bags inhibited growth and biofilm formation of children’s plaque bacteria. Compared to controls, bottled raspberry flavored teas and cranberry juice cocktails significantly inhibited growth and biofilm formation of test bacteria. Added sugar did not significantly impact the inhibition (p > 0.05). Biofilms formed in these beverages were loosely attached and easily dislodged from surfaces. Conclusions: Beverages rich in antimicrobial plant polyphenols reduce plaque adherence, may benefit oral health and are preferred over other sugary beverages. The concept of oral diseases prevention using natural foods/diet is innovative, practical and acceptable.

Strategies to Combat Caries by Maintaining the Integrity of Biofilm and Homeostasis during the Rapid Phase of Supragingival Plaque Formation

“…Natural polyphenols and other active plant-derived compounds have also been studied. Current studies have focused on evaluating the ability of active plant-derived compounds to reduce the adhesion of pathogens and inhibit the formation of biofilms in disease development processes [66,67]. Phytochemicals,…”

“…Natural polyphenols and other active plant-derived compounds have also been studied. Current studies have focused on evaluating the ability of active plant-derived compounds to reduce the adhesion of pathogens and inhibit the formation of biofilms in disease development processes [ 66 , 67 ]. Phytochemicals, mainly polyphenols and flavonoids, have been widely studied to manage the growth inhibition, acid production, and adhesion of pathogens during biofilm formation and to prevent dysbiosis [ 68 ].…”

“…In addition, this polyphenol promotes the adhesion of other beneficial streptococci, controlling the efficacy and safety between the medium and oral homeostasis. Black tea maintains the pH of the medium and inhibits bacterial glycolysis in the supragingival biofilm [ 67 ].…”