Can Coffee Prevent Caries? - An In-Vitro Study

Abstract

Streptococcus mutans has been implicated as a primary causative agent of dental caries in humans. The micro-organisms produce 3 types of glucosyltransferase, and synthesize an adherent and water-insoluble glucan from sucrose by their cooperative action, which causes the organisms to adhere firmly to the tooth surface. The adherent glucan also contributes to the formation of dental plaque, in which the accumulation of acids leads to localized decalcification of the enamel surface. Roasted coffee extract possesses antibacterial activity against a wide range of microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans. The in-vitro study conducted at Oral Maxillofacial Pathology and Microbiology laboratory at KLE Society’s Institute of Dental Sciences showed that coffee has antibacterial action to streptococcus mutans and hence has an anticariogenic action but no antiadhesive action. This was studied by counting the colony forming units of the Strep. Mutans and the zone of inhibition around the different combinations of coffee.