New research co-authored by Israeli scientists has found that adding a naturally occurring molecule to toothpaste and mouthwash can reduce your chances of dental cavities.
Scientists at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev were part of the international team to determine that molecule 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM), also known as bisindole, can lead to a 90-percent reduction in biofilms, which generate plaque, attack enamel and cause cavities.
“The molecule, which was found to have low toxicity, could be added to toothpastes and mouthwashes to greatly improve dental hygiene,” said lead author Prof. Ariel Kushmaro of the Department of Biotechnology Engineering at Ben-Gurion University.
“Dental caries is one of the most common oral diseases, imposing a large economic burden on many segments of the population worldwide,” the authors of the study said.
Approximately 90% of adults have had at least one cavity.
The research was carried out in collaboration with Sichuan University in China and the National University of Singapore.
The research team included Kushmaro’s student, Yifat Baruch; Dr. Karina Golberg and Professor Robert S. Marks of BGU; Qun Sun of Sichuan University; and Karina Yew-Hoong Gin of the National University of Singapore.
The study was recently published in the journal antibiotics.
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