Source oral disease-fighting substances from plants.

Scientists at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC, Department of Periodontics, College of Dentistry, 801 S. Paulina St., Chicago, IL 60612) are looking for plant extracts that can suppress the growth or affect the function of pathogenic bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Makers of health products should take note of this research if they're looking for natural sources of antibacterial agents for use in mouth rinses, toothpastes and other oral hygiene products. A limited number of oral hygiene products containing medicinal herbs are available in the United States.

The UIC Investigators have screened more than 300 plant extracts routinely used in alternative medicine practice for the treatment or control of dental cavities and gum disease, including the Chinese nutgall and Szechwan pepper.

Buds from the clove plant also have been investigated for their potential use. Clove oil has been used for years in the United States for root canal therapy, temporary fillings and to control pain. UIC scientists found that clove oil inhibits the growth of oral bacteria, and that two flavonols found in them significantly limit the growth of certain bacteria that cause gum disease.

The UIC group has been studying the effects of teas on plaque bacteria and acidity, as well as their anticavity effect in humans. They have found that green, black and Oolong teas inhibit the growth of pathogenic dental plaque-forming bacteria. They're looking into the effect of black tea on inhibiting plaque acidity. Green tea-based chewing gum is on the market in Asia, although incorporating natural compounds into such products may cause undesirable flavors.

In recent years, the research group has been interested in chewing sticks (miswak) and their oral health benefits. Chewing sticks made from the stems or twigs of certain plants have been used for centuries for tooth and tongue cleansing in the Middle East and various African countries. One end of the stick is frayed into a brush that is rubbed against the teeth for cleaning.

Although limited research has been performed on these sticks, some surveys indicate that people using the chewing sticks have fewer cavities and healthier gums than those who do not use them. The sticks may contain chemical compounds capable of suppressing plaque bacteria. The identities of these active compounds and their oral health benefits are being examined.

The UIC group is interested in undertaking analyses and identification of potential natural oral disease-fighting substances and performing clinical trials for industry.

Further information. Dr. Christine Wu; phone: [phone]; fax: [phone]; email: [e-mail].