Periodontal disease is an oral health disorder primarily caused by bacteria. It strikes people of all ages and is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because periodontal disease is painless and develops slowly, you can have this disease for years without knowing it. If left untreated, periodontal disease can destroy gum tissue and the bone underlying the teeth, resulting in loosening of the teeth. Periodontal disease is reversible in its early stages through conventional treatments, such as regular brushing, flossing and using mouthwash that contains green tea extracts. You may require professional treatments if your condition becomes advanced.
Plant Description
The green tea plant, also called Camellia sinensis, is a large, hardy shrub with evergreen leaves. Native to mainland south and southeast Asia, it is grown extensively in those regions. The tip and the first two to three leaves are harvested for use in preparing green tea, the most common beverage in the world. It is brewed by steeping tea leaves in hot water. Regularly consumed in Asian nations to promote health and satisfy thirst, green tea has been much less common in Western nations, although its use is increasing.
Green Tea Composition
Most of the health benefits of green tea are likely due to the presence of polyphenol compounds, also called catechins, chemicals with free-radical scavenging activity. Epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, is the most powerful antioxidant found in green tea and is believed responsible for its potent antibacterial effects as well. Green tea also contains other phytochemicals, such as volatile oils, alkaloids, caffeine, vitamins and minerals.
Green Tea and Periodontal disease
Green tea is often used as a natural cure for periodontal disease. It prevents the attachment of bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus, which cause periodontal disease. In addition, green tea is a rich source of fluoride and can increase the resistance of tooth enamel to acid-induced erosion. Green tea's ability to help reduce symptoms of periodontal disease is largely attributed to polyphenols, chemicals with antioxidant properties.
Precautions
Although green tea offers many health benefits, you must use it with care and under the supervision of a medical practitioner. The caffeine in green tea can stimulate the central nervous system, causing insomnia, nervousness and arrhythmia, or heart rate irregularities. Women must not consume excessive amounts of green tea during pregnancy and lactation, because it can cause impaired iron metabolism and anemia in infants.
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 Country 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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