Polyphenols and oral health

Resumo

Polyphenols (PPs) are reactive metabolites abundant in
plant derived foods, especially fruits, seeds and leaves. Polyphenols
exert preventive activity against infectious and degenerative diseases
including oral diseases. Objective: This non-systematic review
discusses the preventive activity of PPs in the diet against oral diseases
as well as their limitations. Literature review: Relevant references
have been used to summarize the beneficial effects of PPs in our
diet and to understand why they are receiving increasing interest
from health professionals for potential clinical use, as well as food
manufacturers and consumers alike. Conclusion: Better knowledge
of dietary polyphenols could offer a very economical public health
intervention in maintaining oral health.