Nutrition & Diet

Small Study Suggests Unsweetened Cranberry Juice May Curb Cavity-Causing Bacteria

Unsweetened cranberry juice may help suppress the dental plaque bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, according to preliminary research from the University of Illinois Chicago. In a study of 22 participants, including 14 children and eight adults, researchers compared pure cranberry juice, a sweetened cranberry cocktail, and water. They collected plaque before and 30 minutes after participants swished and swallowed their assigned drink. The report says pure juice slowed bacterial regrowth and reduced acid production, potentially because of natural cranberry compounds. However, the supplied article cuts off before detailed results and provides no effect sizes. This brief experiment does not establish that cranberry juice prevents cavities. Its acidity also deserves consideration, so these findings should not change established habits such as fluoride brushing, cleaning between teeth, and regular dental visits.