An apple a day keeps the doctor away, but can the right amount of seaweed keep you out of the dentist’s office? Some studies suggest that the nutrients and antimicrobial properties of natural seaweed compounds are perfect for preventing tooth decay, gum disease and canker sores.
For formulators in search of natural oral care ingredients to replace artificial ones, some seaweed compounds may do an exceptional job at protecting your customers. Let’s take a look at how fucoidan, a complex polysaccharide found in some brown seaweed species, can help oral care products promote healthy mouths and smiles.
Prevent Gum Disease
Millions of Americans suffer with the irritation of inflamed or bleeding gums in their daily lives. Though gingivitis might seem mild at first, the slow decline into periodontitis can result in enamel decay and eventual tooth loss. In time, porphyromonas gingivalis can even make its way into the blood stream, often becoming of the most abundant bacteria species found in patients with coronary heart disease.
Studies are showing that some of the properties of seaweed creates an inhospitable environment for gingivitis to grow. For example, fucoidan offers antimicrobial advantages that reduce porphyromonas gingivalis colonies living in the mouth. Moreover, it wipes out bacteria populations without doing damage to gums in the process.
Reduce Tooth Decay
Bacteria is an important contributor to tooth decay, and eliminating bad bacteria at the source is vital to avoid cavities, infection and tooth loss. Yet oral bacteria like Streptococcus mutans is all too common, making the strength and antibacterial nature of dental products critical for consumers. Moreover, the ability of your products to interfere with the functionality of bacteria will determine whether or not dentists recommend your products.
That’s why it’s important to prevent bacterial adhesion. If Streptococcus mutans or similar bacteria are unable to adhere to teeth, then the bulwark of their destructive power is eliminated. Studies of seaweed fucoidan show that bacteria like Streptococcus mutans are inhibited in their ability to adhere to both bovine teeth and porcelain, demonstrating their potency with either real or fake teeth.
Fight Canker Sores
Though not life-threatening, canker sores (known as recurrent aphthous stomatitis) are a nagging pain for the week or two it takes for them to heal. It’s next to impossible to avoid exacerbating them while chewing or even talking. Whatever the root cause – dental work, vigorous brushing, or a miscalculated bite – it’s something that most consumers are eager to eliminate.
Again, fucoidan exhibits some success with canker sores. The duration and quantity of canker sores in the mouths of test subjects decreased in the presence of fucoidan-based creams or tablets. For those formulators in search of a natural and cost-effective source, some brown seaweeds can provide an excellent source of fucoidan and foster a greater immunomodulation response.
Looking for natural oral care ingredients that deliver on their promises? Reach out to our team to find out how our all-natural seaweed products can enhance your products.
Let’s schedule time to talk!
Related Articles
Worried about Heart Disease? Seaweed Supplements Can Cut the Risk
3 Ways All-Natural Seaweed Can Improve People’s Lives and Health