Most of us love coffee for the energy boost and, if good, for the aroma. But what would you say if we told you that your morning cup of coffee might also have benefits for your teeth? Researchers have dived into the antimicrobial properties of coffee, and the results might make you smile.
What's in our mouths?
First, a quick review of dental caries. Caries is caused by a complex interaction between oral bacteria, our own susceptibility, and our diet. Two main bacteria, Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus, play significant roles.
Traditional methods and natural substances
The traditional way to fight these bacteria and prevent cavities has been through mouthwashes containing fluoride or chlorohexidine. However, these substances are not without drawbacks. Excessive consumption of fluoride in young children can lead to fluorosis, a discoloration of the teeth. The chlorohexidine, although effective, can alter taste and stain teeth.
To address these problems, the World Health Organization has recommended looking for natural substances such as herbal extracts that could be just as effective. This brings us to coffee.
Science and coffee
Researchers then decided to conduct an in-depth study to examine how coffee extracts compare with traditional mouthwashes. The results?
Higher concentrations of coffee extract are significantly more effective in inhibiting S. mutans than both mouthwashes chlorohexidine and fluoride. However, it is important to note that the chlorohexidine was even more effective against L. plantarum, another bacterium that contributes to cavity formation.
In simpler terms, coffee showed a strong "bacteriostatic" effect on S. mutans. This means that it prevented the bacteria from growing further, although it did not kill them. As for L. plantarum, coffee showed a bacteriostatic effect only at much higher concentrations, and even then, the chlorohexidine Was more effective.
Polyphenols
One of the key elements in coffee that could contribute to its antimicrobial properties is its high polyphenol content. Polyphenols are natural compounds found in plants and have been shown to have various health benefits, including antimicrobial effects.
Daily implications
Given the concentration of levels in the study, drinking your daily coffee could potentially inhibit the growth of S. mutans, the main bacteria that causes dental cavities. While it will not replace your mouthwash, it is an interesting additional line of defense against oral bacteria.
Conclusion
It is unlikely that the dentist will prescribe coffee as an anti-caries, we now have one more reason to love our coffee.
The antibacterial effects of coffee extract, chlorhexidine, and fluoride against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus plantarum: An in vitro study. Dent Res J (Isfahan). 2019 Sep 5;16(5):346-353. PMID: 31543942; PMCID: PMC6749852.
