Not all treatments are synthesized in laboratories; sometimes we consume them in our daily diet without realizing it. One example is 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM)—a natural compound also studied for its anti-cancer properties, which can reduce biofilm formation, the main cause of dental plaque, by nearly 90%. Dental plaques are a commonly annoying issue; they are highly prevalent. The mouth is home to a diverse community of bacteria that plays a crucial role in oral health; any imbalance in this community may cause health problems. Dental plaque forms on the tooth surface as a layer made up of bacterial colonies, their byproducts of carbohydrate metabolism, and mouth residual debris. Prolonged plaque acidification causes the demineralization of tooth enamel, leading to dental caries.
DIM is produced from the breakdown of a natural component known as indole-3-carbinol found in cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli. Besides research supporting its anticancer properties, researchers found that it has the potential to reduce dental caries. Researchers found that DIM successfully inhibited biofilm formation by multiple species of bacteria on the tooth surface (the main reason behind the formation of dental plaque and subsequently caries) by nearly 90%. These experiments have been done in laboratories, but clinical testing of DIM is crucial for it to be approved and incorporated into toothpastes or mouthwashes.
Although DIM is not yet officially approved, researchers believe that this finding are promising, paving the way for a healthier alternative that can reduce tooth decay and improve overall mouth health.
References
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8809333
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35631553
pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/3071
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