The Application of hydroxytyrosol in Oral care

Hydroxytyrosol, a natural polyphenolic compound derived from olives, exhibits unique application potential in oral care, particularly in inhibiting periodontitis and preventing dental caries, thanks to its significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities.

In terms of periodontitis inhibition, the core mechanism of hydroxytyrosol revolves around regulating the inflammatory microenvironment of periodontal tissues. The occurrence and progression of periodontitis are closely related to infections by pathogenic bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and the excessive immune-inflammatory response triggered thereby. Hydroxytyrosol can inhibit the growth and reproduction of these pathogenic bacteria, reducing the release of their virulence factors (e.g., lipopolysaccharides), thereby alleviating damage to periodontal tissues from the source. Meanwhile, it can downregulate the expression of inflammatory mediators (such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, etc.), block the transmission of inflammatory signaling pathways, and relieve inflammatory symptoms like gingival redness, swelling, and bleeding. In addition, the antioxidant properties of hydroxytyrosol can scavenge reactive oxygen species in periodontal tissues, reduce oxidative stress-induced damage to periodontal ligament cells and osteoblasts, protect the structure and function of periodontal supporting tissues, and delay the progression of periodontitis.

In terms of dental caries prevention, the role of hydroxytyrosol is mainly reflected in the inhibition of cariogenic bacteria and the protection of tooth enamel. Dental caries primarily occur when cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans decompose carbohydrates in food to produce acidic substances, leading to demineralization of tooth enamel. Hydroxytyrosol can destroy the cell membrane structure of cariogenic bacteria, inhibit their acid-producing ability and the synthesis of extracellular polysaccharides, reduce the colonization of cariogenic bacteria on the tooth surface and the formation of biofilms, thereby lowering the risk of dental caries. Additionally, studies have shown that hydroxytyrosol may further protect tooth structure by promoting remineralization of tooth enamel or enhancing its resistance to acid erosion. Its antioxidant effect also helps reduce damage to dental tissues caused by oxidative stress in the oral cavity, maintaining the stability of the oral microenvironment.

Currently, the application forms of hydroxytyrosol in oral care products are being gradually explored, such as adding it to toothpaste, mouthwash, or oral gels. These products act locally on the oral mucosa and tooth surfaces, allowing hydroxytyrosol to directly contact lesion sites or susceptible areas, exerting its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. However, further research is needed on its stability in different formulations, release efficiency, and safety during long-term use to optimize its practical application effects in oral care.