Researchers at Aarhus University investigated how the amino acid arginine affects the risk of dental decay and the formation of dental plaque. Zalim Kudaev, the founder of the “Teeth in One Day” dental clinic network, highlighted the significance of the study’s findings.
During the experiment, participants were fitted with prosthetics that were submerged in a sugary solution three times daily to encourage bacterial growth. One surface of each prosthetic was treated with an arginine solution, while the other was treated with water. After four days, the researchers examined the biofilms developed on the prosthetics.
It was discovered that the section treated with arginine exhibited a more alkaline environment (a higher pH level), which consequently lessened the corrosive nature of the dental plaque. Furthermore, there was a reduction in the population of Streptococcus mitis/oralis bacteria, which are responsible for acid production, and an increase in the count of bacteria that metabolize arginine, thereby elevating the pH.
Arginine occurs naturally in saliva and can be sourced from foods such as chicken, nuts, cheese, fish, legumes, and seeds. It is also commonly incorporated into commercial toothpastes and mouthwashes. Zalim Kudaev recommends ensuring personal hygiene products contain arginine, which will be listed as “arginine” on ingredient labels.
Experts emphasize that while helpful, arginine is not a substitute for routine tooth brushing; rather, it complements oral hygiene practices by bolstering enamel protection and curtailing the activity of acid-producing, cavity-causing bacteria.
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