Tea consumption as a beverage is very common in various parts of the world. It has attained a worldwide liking and measure of social status in many parts. Tea contains various chemicals which have positive effects on health from heart to skin. It has been associated with the cure of aging to potent anticancer agent also. Considering these facts an attempt was made to establish a relation between tea and oral health. Tea has its effects on oral microorganisms, anticariogenic properties, and reduction of gingivitis as well as periodontitis. A cup of tea immediately after lunch had reduced dental caries in children and rinsing with 0.2% Chinese green tea decreased plaque and the gingival index significantly. Tea has been found to be effective against oral cancer, precancerous lesions and conditions as well. Hence tea has been rightly said as a functional food for health. Green tea has shown to have bactericidal effects on Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella species. The gingival inflammation is reduced and a marked reduction in pocket size has been noticed. Tea selectively induces p57 and apoptosis as well as inhibits the growth and invasion of oral carcinoma.
Part of the book: Tea
Fluorides and other trace elements are a part of various biological and chemical responses in the human body. They collaboratively work with all proteins, enzymes, and co-enzymes to carry out the different functions and in redox reactions. The dietary substances may not have an adequate amount of these essential trace elements, resulting in the development of dental soft and hard tissue disorders associated with their deficiencies. To tackle this, dietary supplements will be needed. So, the current chapter has thoroughly addressed the importance of trace elements in dental hard tissues. This has also discussed the effect of fluoride and other trace elements on dental hard tissues, as there is limited literature available in this area. This will provide an overall understanding of how trace elements are an essential part and their importance in oral diseases control and prevention.
Part of the book: Human Tooth and Developmental Dental Defects