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Scientists Discover Natural Molecule That Eradicates Plaques and Cavities (scitechdaily.com)

submitted 1 year ago by Bobo@lemm.ee to c/science@beehaw.org

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Scientists have discovered that the molecule DIM reduces biofilms causing dental plaque by 90%. Its addition to toothpaste and mouthwash could revolutionize dental hygiene. 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM) decreased the Streptococcus mutans biofilm, a leading contributor to plaque and cavities, by 90%.

A significant portion of the global population experiences persistent issues with dental plaque and cavities or will face them at some time. While toothpaste, mouthwash, and routine dental visits help in prevention, there’s always room for improvement.

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, in collaboration with teams from Sichuan University and the National University of Singapore, have identified that 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM) – a naturally occurring molecule also referred to as bisindole – can reduce biofilms responsible for plaque and cavities by a remarkable 90%.

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[-] lvxferre@lemmy.ml 26 points 1 year ago

I've checked the molecule in question, it's that sort of stuff that even amateurs could make in a backyard lab, from indole and dichloromethane (use AlCl₃ as catalyst). So if the effects are real and there aren't too big counter-effects, this will spread like wildfire.

[-] SoylentBlake@lemm.ee 5 points 1 year ago

Care to elaborate for the smooth brained?

[-] lvxferre@lemmy.ml 14 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

It means that it's relatively easy to turn a bunch of cheap ingredients into the molecule in question. So if the molecule works and doesn't cause you harm, you can pretty much expect toothpaste manufacturers to include it in their toothpastes. That's good because toothpastes will be better getting rid of plaque and preventing cavities.