Dental caries (cavities) are considered one of the most common oral diseases in the world. According to estimates, more than 60% of schoolchildren in developing countries suffer from it, and in fact most of the population will experience cavities during their lifetime.
The main cause of the disease is the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, primarily the bacterium Streptococcus mutans, which creates a biofilm layer—the sticky coating on the tooth surface known as “plaque.” Under conditions of sugar and heat, the bacterium multiplies, produces acids that dissolve tooth enamel, and causes ongoing damage that leads to decay.
Now, a team of researchers from Israel, China, and Singapore reveals a breakthrough that may change the balance of power in the fight against this stubborn bacterium.
DIM – the molecule that breaks down plaque
The substance in question is called 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM), or simply DIM. It is a natural molecule produced in the body during the digestion of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower.
In a study published in the scientific journal Antibiotics, it was found that the substance succeeds in stopping the growth of the bacterium S. mutans and breaking down the biofilm layer that causes plaque formation. The findings are particularly impressive: At low concentrations, DIM managed to reduce plaque formation by more than 90%.
The researchers observed that DIM not only halts bacterial reproduction, but also reduces the production of the biological “glue” that allows them to adhere to the tooth surface, thereby significantly weakening the resistance of the plaque layer.
Another advantage: High safety
One of the important aspects of the discovery is the safety level of DIM. Previous studies have shown that the substance also has anti-cancer properties and is relatively low in toxicity to healthy cells. This means that if it is applied in the future in toothpastes or mouthwashes, it may be safe for daily use.
Prof. Ariel Kushmaro, one of the research leaders from Ben-Gurion University, noted that “the molecule, which was found to be safe and with low toxicity, may in the future be integrated into toothpastes and mouthwashes, and significantly improve our ability to maintain oral hygiene.”
Vegetables, teeth, and overall health
The connection between cruciferous vegetables and health has been known for many years. Vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage are rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and dietary fiber. Now it turns out they may also contribute to oral health, not only to cancer prevention or improving digestive system function.
The fact that DIM is naturally produced during digestion indicates that consuming cruciferous vegetables not only benefits overall health, but may also provide a hidden advantage in preventing dental diseases.
What does this mean for us?
At this point, these are findings obtained only under laboratory conditions. No clinical trials have yet been conducted on humans, and there is no approval to use DIM as an official ingredient in oral hygiene products. However, the findings mark a promising direction for future research, which may lead to the development of innovative products—toothpastes, mouthwashes, and perhaps even targeted treatments against plaque.
Until that happens, dentists’ recommendations remain the same:
- Brush twice a day for at least two minutes.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush the tongue to reduce bacteria and freshen breath.
- Use dental floss or interdental brushes once a day.
- Replace toothbrush every three months.
- Regular dental checkups.
In conclusion, cavities are a disease that has accompanied humanity for thousands of years, but science continues to seek new solutions. If research proves that the use of DIM is indeed safe and effective in humans, we may in the future see a real change—oral hygiene products that offer not only mechanical cleaning but also a targeted chemical action against the bacteria themselves.
In the meantime, there is no shortcut: Cruciferous vegetables are part of a healthy diet worth including, not only for the teeth but also for the entire body.
The writer, Dr. Eran Fermon, is a dentist and director of the Malo Clinic in Ramat Hasharon.