ANTIOXIDANT EFFECT OF GREEN TEA ON DENTAL CARIES

Tea is an aromatic beverage commonly prepared by pouring hot or boiling water and milk. Green tea (botanical name of tea plant is Camellia Sinensis) belonging to the family Theaceae ) has been explored in the recent years for its beneficial effects on oral health. Dental caries is a multifactorial disease characterized by the demineralization of tooth structure due to acids produced by cariogenic bacteria, primarily Streptococcus mutans. Oxidative stress and bacterial virulence factors contribute to the progression of carious lesions, and the search for natural, biocompatible agents have intensified. Green tea extracts, rich in polyphenols—especially catechins such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)—exhibit strong antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiinflammatory activities that may counter these pathogenic processes. Green tea extracts also contribute fluoride, which may further enhance enamel resistance. Cariogenic bacteria release glucans with the help of glucosyltransferase (GTase) which are branched and facilitate adherence of microbes to the tooth surface. GC and EGC are the catechins that restrict the growth of 10 types of carries causing bacteria. Collectively, these mechanisms suggest that green Tea may serve as a natural adjunct in caries prevention strategies. Incorporating green tea extracts into mouthrinses, dentifrices, or dietary intake may offer a safe, cost- effective means to reduce caries risk. However, variations in extract composition dosage, and delivery methods warrant further controlled clinical trials to establish standardized guidelines and confirm long-term efficacy. This review underscores the promising role of green tea antioxidants as a supportive measure in dental caries prevention.