Broccoli Molecule Cut Cavity-Causing Plaque Formation by 92%: Scientists Want It in Toothpaste
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11.09.2026 19:41
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2 min read
An international team of researchers from Ben-Gurion University, Sichuan University and the National University of Singapore has found that a natural organic compound, 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), can effectively suppress the formation of biofilms by the bacterium Streptococcus mutans. The microorganism is considered the main culprit behind tooth enamel decay and cavities. In the lab, the compound reduced the volume of the bacterial film by 92%.
Not Killing Bacteria, but Blocking the Biofilm
DIM forms when the body digests cruciferous vegetables — broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage and kale. In a study published in the journal Antibiotics, biologists tested a synthesized analog of the molecule on streptococcus cultures.
The experiments showed that DIM strips the microorganisms of their main defense mechanism:
- It sharply reduces the production of extracellular polymeric substances (polysaccharides), which bacteria use to attach firmly to the smooth surface of a tooth;
- It destroys the architecture of the forming plaque, preventing the bacterial colony from building a dense mass;
- It shows minimal toxicity to surrounding gum tissue.
On social media, the news quickly turned into an anti-scientific myth that “a serving of broccoli destroys 90% of the bacteria in your mouth.” In reality, the compound does not act as an aggressive broad-spectrum antibiotic: the molecule does not kill the microbes themselves but isolates them and keeps them from joining into resilient acid-producing biofilms.
Prospects for Oral Care and Fact-Checking Viral Advice
According to a statement from Ben-Gurion University, the authors see DIM as a promising ingredient for a new generation of toothpastes, gels and mouthwashes. Adding such a biocomplex to oral care products would make it possible to fight tartar more effectively without the risk of disrupting the mouth’s natural microbiome.
The researchers also note that the work was done in vitro (in test tubes). They have not yet run full clinical trials in volunteers, so it is too early to treat the molecule as a ready-made medicine. Nor will simply eating cabbage replace standard oral care: the concentration of the active substance during chewing is too low, so regular brushing and fluoride products remain the indispensable foundation for protecting enamel.
