Cavities are mostly caused by a sneaky bacterium that resides in our mouths—fortunately, certain natural remedies can help lessen their occurrence.
Streptococcus mutans is a cunning bacterium that resides in the mouth, attaches to the teeth, and causes oral health issues. This bacterium thrives on sugar, converting it into acid that wears down enamel and leads to cavities. It plays a significant role in tooth decay, underscoring the importance of preventive measures and proper oral hygiene to maintain a healthy mouth and cavity-free teeth.
Streptococcus Mutans
Streptococcus mutans is a gram-positive bacteria commonly found on tooth surfaces, especially in dental plaque—a film that adheres to the tooth surface.
Streptococcus mutans thrives on sugars from our diet, producing lactic acid as a result. This acid corrodes tooth enamel and leads to cavities. It flourishes in low pH conditions, preferentially below pH 6. The pH level of our mouths is influenced by the foods and beverages we consume, with a more acidic environment predisposing enamel erosion and cavity formation.
Research indicates that S. mutans is adaptable and can utilize alternative components in the absence of carbohydrates in the diet to ensure its survival.
If the concept of intelligent bacteria living on your teeth, consuming sugar from your diet, and generating acid that causes cavities is unsettling, rest assured that the human mouth hosts approximately 700 different types of bacteria, as per
research. Many of these bacteria are beneficial.
Xylitol to Reduce Bacteria and Prevent Cavities
Xylitol, a low-calorie sweetener, belongs to the sugar alcohol group, neither sugars nor alcohols, but polyols. These include sorbitol, maltitol, mannitol, erythritol, and xylitol, naturally present in foods like mushrooms, prunes, apples, and pineapples. The human body also produces xylitol as a byproduct of carbohydrate metabolism, generating around 5 to 15 grams of xylitol daily.
Studies suggest that xylitol can inhibit the growth and proliferation of S. mutans bacteria, reducing cavity development.
A
systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Contemporary Medical Sciences analyzed several studies and confirmed that xylitol significantly decreased the count of S. mutans in saliva and dental plaque, leading to a reduction in cavities.
In
an episode of his podcast on oral health, neuroscientist Andrew Huberman discusses xylitol and its impact on S. mutans. Mr. Huberman explains that S. mutans bacteria enjoy consuming xylitol, but when they do, they are unable to produce the acid that typically leads to teeth demineralization and cavities. Other studies have shown that xylitol hinders the bacteria’s ability to adhere to teeth and contribute to plaque formation.
One study investigated the effects of chewing xylitol gum on schoolchildren and noted a noticeable decrease in dental plaque formation and S. mutans levels in saliva after regular xylitol gum consumption. The researchers stressed the importance of consistent and prolonged xylitol usage for beneficial outcomes.
Another study discovered that xylitol aids in cavity prevention and can reverse early-stage cavity effects.
Many commercially available products contain xylitol, with xylitol gum and mints being popular choices. These products are particularly beneficial for children to reduce S. mutans levels and shield against tooth decay. For younger children, xylitol toothpaste is a suitable option for tooth protection.
Xylitol Concerns
Despite the heralded benefits to oral health, it appears that xylitol, particularly in food applications, may have adverse effects.
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal linked elevated xylitol levels in the blood to an increased risk of cardiovascular events and heightened platelet reactivity.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, this applies specifically to xylitol in foods, with no danger associated with using xylitol in oral products.
However,
an article by Dr. Peter Attia, a medical practitioner from the Stanford University School of Medicine, sheds light on the recent xylitol study and its limitations, noting similar findings by the same research group on erythritol, another sugar alcohol, a year prior.
He also mentions that for assessing xylitol’s impact on blood clotting, the study authors utilized xylitol levels nearing or exceeding concentrations observed in human fasting plasma samples. They did not differentiate between dietary xylitol and endogenously produced xylitol in the body.
Endogenously, xylitol is produced via the glucuronate pathway, one of the pathways for glucose metabolism in the body, Dr. Attia explains. He concludes that “At best, this work demonstrates that endogenous xylitol correlates with—but doesn’t necessarily contribute to—cardiovascular risk.” Further research is deemed necessary.
Xylitol is also
toxic for dogs and may result in severe hypoglycemia, liver failure, and bleeding issues. With the rise in xylitol-containing food products, dogs face an elevated risk, necessitating precautions to keep xylitol-containing items away from pets.
Natural Remedies to Reduce S. Mutans
Various natural methods can help lower S. mutans levels in the mouth and enhance oral health. Here are some examples of natural approaches to combat S. mutans and promote oral well-being.
Coconut Oil Pulling
Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, involves swishing oil in the mouth for approximately 10 to 20 minutes before spitting it out. Different oils, such as sesame oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil, can be used. Coconut oil is favored for its antimicrobial properties.
Studies suggest that oil pulling benefits extend beyond oral health.
“According to ancient Indian Ayurveda text, oil pulling can be used for the prevention and treatment of more than 30 different diseases, ranging from headaches, migraines, and thrombosis to severe conditions like diabetes and asthma,” as noted in
a study published in the International Journal of Health Sciences.
A
meta-analysis conducted in 2022 demonstrated that coconut oil pulling significantly reduced S. mutans counts in saliva, comparable to the effect of chlorhexidine mouthwash.
Salt Water Rinsing
Rinsing the mouth with salt water is a straightforward and efficient method to diminish bacteria and uphold oral hygiene. Salt acts as a natural disinfectant, helping maintain a more alkaline oral environment that is less conducive to bacterial growth.
A clinical trial published in the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry revealed substantial reductions in S. mutans levels in saliva and a decline in bacteria after regular salt water rinsing over 10 days.
Green Tea
Green tea is a favored beverage for its numerous health benefits, specifically its antioxidant properties, which combat reactive oxygen species and deter free radical formation. Besides being a soothing drink, it is increasingly being used in mouthwashes for its positive impact on oral health.
These benefits are attributed to its polyphenols, particularly catechins, boasting antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidative qualities.
A study featured in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that green tea notably reduced S. mutans levels compared to water.
Another study established that epigallocatechin gallate, a catechin in green tea, hindered acid production by S. mutans in dental plaque.
Streptococcus Mutans Origin
We are not inherently equipped with streptococcus mutans—it is a bacterium acquired, typically during childhood.
Studies suggest that mothers are the primary source of S. mutans and transmit it to their children during the early years—transferring via saliva.
Although mothers are the key source of S. mutans,
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