Green tea, a staple in many Asian cultures, has been consumed for thousands of years for its varied health benefits.
While its positive impacts on cardiovascular health, weight management, and cognitive function are widely recognized, fewer are aware of its profound effects on oral health and well-being.
Here, we dive into seven compelling benefits of green tea for your mouth and oral health.
1) Antimicrobial properties of Green Tea
Green tea is rich in catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds have shown significant antimicrobial properties against harmful oral bacteria, notably Streptococcus mutans, primarily responsible for tooth decay(1).
By suppressing the growth of such bacteria, green tea can help reduce the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
2) Reduces gum inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of green tea catechins can also prove beneficial for gum health. A study found that individuals who regularly consumed green tea had healthier gums than those who didn’t(2).
The tea’s antioxidants might reduce inflammation, improving gum health and decreasing periodontal disease risk.
3) Fights bad breath
The antimicrobial effects of green tea don’t just stop at preventing cavities. They also play a role in combating halitosis (bad breath).
The tea neutralises the sulphur compounds primarily responsible for the foul smell(3).
4) Strengthens teeth
Fluoride is often praised for reinforcing tooth enamel; green tea naturally contains this mineral.
Regular consumption can thus make stronger teeth more resistant to decay and erosion(4).
5) Reduces oral cancer risk
The antioxidants in green tea, particularly EGCG, have been shown to inhibit the growth of oral cancer cells(5). While further studies are needed to fully understand the relationship between green tea and oral cancer prevention, preliminary research indicates a promising potential for green tea as a preventive measure.
6) Reduces the risk of tooth loss
Given its benefits in reducing gum inflammation and strengthening teeth, it’s no surprise that green tea consumption is also associated with a reduced risk of tooth loss.
A Japanese study found that regular consumption of green tea was associated with decreased odds of tooth loss(6).
7) Green Tea Enhances overall well-being
While not directly an oral health benefit, it’s worth noting that green tea has been linked to reduced stress and improved cognitive function(7).
A healthier mind can lead to better oral care routines and habits, thus indirectly promoting better oral health.
In conclusion, while it’s essential to maintain proper oral hygiene practices, integrating green tea into your daily routine can offer additional protection and benefits for your oral health. As always, moderation is crucial.
Excessive green tea consumption can lead to caffeine-related side effects and interfere with iron absorption.
References:
- Hirasawa, M., Takada, K., & Makimura, M. (2002). Improvement of periodontal status by green tea catechin using a local delivery system: a clinical pilot study. Journal of Periodontal Research, 37(6), 433-438.
- Kushiyama, M., Shimazaki, Y., Murakami, M., & Yamashita, Y. (2009). Relationship between intake of green tea and periodontal disease. Journal of Periodontology, 80(3), 372-377.
- Lodhia, P., Yaegaki, K., Khakbaznejad, A., Imai, T., Sato, T., Tanaka, T., … & Kamoda, T. (2008). Effect of green tea on volatile sulfur compounds in mouth air. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 54(1), 89-94.
- Narotzki, B., Reznick, A. Z., & Mitki, T. (2012). Green tea: a promising natural product in oral health. Archives of oral biology, 57(5), 429-435.
- Gupta, S., Hastak, K., Ahmad, N., Lewin, J. S., & Mukhtar, H. (2001). Inhibition of prostate carcinogenesis in TRAMP mice by oral infusion of green tea polyphenols. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 98(18), 10350-10355.
- Furuta, M., Ekuni, D., Irie, K., Azuma, T., Tomofuji, T., Ogura, T., & Morita, M. (2010). Relationship between tea consumption and tooth loss: cross-sectional results from the Ohsaki Cohort 2006 Study. Preventive Medicine, 50(4), 173-178.
- Schmidt, A., Hammann, F., Wölnerhanssen, B., Meyer-Gerspach, A. C., Drewe, J., Beglinger, C., & Borgwardt, S. (2014). Green tea extract enhances parieto-frontal connectivity during working memory processing. Psychopharmacology, 231(19), 3879-3888.
