Periodontal disease is a serious bacterial infection in which the gums and bones that support the teeth become seriously damaged. It normally begins with gum inflammation and bleeding. Bacteria which constantly form on the teeth can cause persistent bad breath. Periodontal disease is a health risk that can progress to loosening of the teeth if left untreated. Green tea is used by some as a natural cure for periodontal disease; however, you must first consult your dentist if you suspect you have periodontal disease.
Plant Description
The green tea plant, known botanically as Camellia sinensis, is a large, hardy evergreen originally from mainland south and southeast Asia. Today, Camellia sinensis is cultivated around the globe, including in Europe and North America. The plant grows to a height of 6 to 8 feet, although it is trimmed below 6 feet when grown for leaves. It has yellow-white flowers, with leaves 4 to 5 cm in diameter. Normally, fresh tea leaves are harvested for processing.
Green Tea Composition
Polyphenols are the most abundant antioxidant compounds found in green tea. A polyphenol called epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, is believed to be responsible for most of green tea's roles in promoting good health. Green tea also contains several other biologically active constituents, such as caffeine, volatile oils, alkaloids, flavonoids, polysaccharides, vitamins and minerals.
Green Tea and Periodontal Disease
Green tea has been known to prevent periodontal disease by killing Staphylococcus aureus, a type of spherical bacterium that creates toxins and destroys the gums and bones surrounding the teeth. Green tea leaves are the richest source of antioxidant compounds called catechins, which may reduce bacterial growth in the mouth. In addition, drinking green tea or taking supplements containing green tea also helps prevent dental caries because of the fluoride it contains, which is known to strengthen tooth enamel.
Precautions
Green tea has no serious side effects; however, it can still be unpleasant to some. It has central nervous system stimulating effects, so people suffering from sleep disorders should not consume green tea in large amounts, especially at night. Green tea may also interfere with iron metabolism in infants and cause microcytic anemia. Therefore, women must avoid green tea during pregnancy and lactation.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Periodontal Disease - Prevention
- Boston University: School of Dental Medicine: Science Day
- Kalamazoo College: In Vitro Effects of (-)-Epigallo-3-Catechin Gallate on Induced Inflammation Response in Human Gingival Fibroblasts and EpiGingival TM Tissue Models:
- Fairfax County Public Schools: Herbal Supplements
- Colorado State University, Extension: Weight Loss Products and Programs; J. Anderson et al.; December 2008
- Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences: Periodontal Disease
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