Scientists discover that cranberry juice may help fight tooth decay
Cranberry juice may offer an unexpected benefit beyond its reputation for helping prevent urinary tract infections: protecting teeth from decay. Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago discovered that pure, unsweetened cranberry juice slowed the regrowth of dental plaque bacteria and reduced their production of acids that damage tooth enamel. The secret may lie in naturally occurring compounds called…
Key points
- Pure unsweetened cranberry juice slowed dental plaque regrowth and reduced acid production in a small study.
- The study involved 22 participants, 14 children and eight adults, who consumed one of three beverages.
- Researchers say larger, longer studies are needed to show whether cranberry juice prevents cavities.
New research suggests that pure, unsweetened cranberry juice may slow the growth of dental plaque and reduce acid production that contributes to tooth decay. The study, published in Scientific Reports, was conducted by researchers including Christine Wu, a professor of pediatric dentistry at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry.
The small human study involved 22 participants, 14 children and eight adults, who were randomly assigned to drink pure 100% cranberry juice, a cranberry juice cocktail with 27% juice and added sugar, or plain water.
How the study was conducted
Participants arrived with overnight dental plaque. Researchers collected plaque samples from one side of each mouth, then participants rinsed with water and consumed three small amounts of their assigned beverage, swishing before swallowing.
Thirty minutes later, researchers collected plaque from teeth not swabbed earlier. Plaque exposed to pure cranberry juice showed slower regrowth than unexposed plaque, and acid production was reduced in both children and adults.
This study found the opposite: that cranberry juice affected dental plaque regrowth and acid production, which may counteract some of the damage done by sugar
— Christine Wu
What the researcher said
Wu said she is interested in how food and beverages can combat harmful bacteria and benefit oral health. She noted that most cranberry juice studies have used laboratory-prepared extract and that limited studies have been performed in children.
Wu suggested pure cranberry juice could eventually be developed as a functional beverage for oral health. She acknowledged its tart flavor may be unpleasant for some and suggested adding an appropriate sugar substitute to make it more palatable.
