Overview

• A Microbiology Spectrum study shows (-)-epicatechin gallate from maple wood potently inhibits the sortase A enzyme in Streptococcus mutans, halting biofilm formation on tooth-like surfaces.
• Laboratory assays revealed ECG to be significantly more effective than green tea’s EGCG at preventing S. mutans biofilms in computer modeling, enzyme activity tests, and biofilm formation experiments.
• Researchers recommend incorporating edible ECG into mouthwashes and dental formulations to offer a non-toxic, antibiofilm approach complementary to or replacing traditional fluoride and bactericidal agents.
• The active polyphenol mechanism targets bacterial adhesion rather than killing bacteria, making it particularly safe for young children who risk ingesting oral care products.
• A University of Wyoming-affiliated startup co-founded by study authors is now developing plant polyphenol-based oral care formulations aimed at commercial cavity prevention.