Green tea – A miracle drink for oral health

Green tea is the most soughtful beverage of both the young and old due to its numerous health benefits. The biological activity of its components like catechin constitute towards this quality of green tea. Numerous studies have proved the antioxidant properties of green tea. Present study investigates its role in reducing the count of streptococcus mutans in the oral cavity and its effect on the salivary pH. Aim: To evaluate the salivary ph and streptococcus mutans count in healthy individuals before and after rinsing the oral cavity with green tea. Materials and methods: Unstimulated saliva is collected from 45 healthy south Indian population in the age group of 18 years and above. Salivary samples are collected before and after rinsing the oral cavity with green tea and tested for salivary ph using ph strips and Streptococcus mutans count in mitis salivarious agar. Results: To find the significant difference unpaired T test was used. There is statistically significant increase in salivary ph and decrease in streptococcus mutans count after rinsing the mouth with green tea. Conclusion: Based on the results of the study it could be advisable to encourage regular consumption of this healthy drink and to incorporate it in mouthwashes, toothpaste and chewing gums.