The Effect of Green Tea on Prevention of Mouth Bacterial Infection, Halitosis, and Plaque Formation on Teeth

Background: Compounds present in both green and black teas have been shown to inhibit the growth and activity of bacteria associated with mouth infections. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of green tea leaves extract on the aerobic mouth bacterial load. Methods: A total of 25 volunteer female students, aged 20-25 years, were selected and then evaluated by green tea extract and mouthwashes containing 0.2, 0.5, and 1% tannin, as the most effective antibacterial complex in green tea. Then a comparative study was conducted on a green tea mouthwash containing 1% tannin with 10% ethanol, a alcohol free mouthwash, and a green tea herbal mouthwash with a chlorhexidine 0.2% sample, as and chemical brand. Results: Green tea mouthwash containing 1% tannin was more effective than other concentrations (P < 0.05). There were no meaningful differences between the green tea mouthwashes containing 10% alcohol and alcohol free, as well as the herbal and chemical chlorhexidine 0.2% (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The herbal green tea mouthwash could reduce the aerobic mouth bacterial load and may prevent plaque formation on teeth and come over halitosis due to infection of the bacteria. Also, it is a safe and nontoxic mouthwash especially for children and pregnant women.