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Scientists have developed sweets that prevent tooth decay
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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A team of specialists from the German company Organobalance GmbH has developed an unusual type of candy that helps prevent tooth decay. Such sweets do not contain sugar, but they do contain dead microorganisms that join harmful bacteria in the oral cavity, helping to reduce the risk of tooth decay and improving the condition of the oral cavity in general.
Scientists have long proven that after eating, pathogenic microflora of the oral cavity is activated in the oral cavity: harmful microorganisms are fixed on the teeth and secrete acid that destroys tooth enamel, which is why it is recommended to rinse your mouth after eating. The most common harmful bacteria in the oral cavity is Mutans streptococci. The bacterium Lactobacillus paracasei reduces the destructive effect of pathogenic microflora on tooth enamel, it significantly reduces the content of pathogenic bacteria in the oral cavity. Interacting with harmful bacteria, Lactobacillus paracasei prevents Mutans streptococci from reattaching to the tooth surface, as a result, the bacteria are washed away by saliva and do not destroy tooth enamel.
Candies containing samples of dead bacteria Lactobacillus paracasei DSMZ16671 were tested on 60 volunteers. All volunteers were divided into 3 groups. In the first group, participants received a new type of candy containing one milligram of Lactobacillus paracasei, the second group - with a content of two milligrams. The third group was a control group, whose participants received a placebo (empty candies). Each participant in the experiment had to eat five candies within a day and a half. At the same time, it was strictly forbidden to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth, drink coffee, wine, or probiotics. After the end of the experiment, scientists examined the participants and found that about 75% of those who ate the new type of candy had a significant increase in the level of pathogenic bacteria in their saliva. The control group did not show such results. At the same time, in the group that ate candies containing two milligrams of Lactobacillus paracasei, the level of pathogenic flora decreased after just a small piece of candy.
It is worth noting that Lactobacillus paracasei interacted only with pathogenic bacteria, without having any effect on beneficial microorganisms in the oral cavity. The new type of candy also stimulates salivation, which also contributes to oral health.
The oral cavity contains both beneficial and pathogenic microorganisms. Brushing your teeth twice a day (usually in the morning and evening) helps eliminate pathogenic microflora, while allowing beneficial bacteria to perform their functions. Sugar-free candies containing dead bacteria that interact with pathogenic microflora significantly improve the health of your teeth and oral cavity in general. Dental health plays an important role in the health of the entire body. First of all, poor dental health can cause gastrointestinal diseases and various inflammatory diseases.
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