Effect of Cranberry Juice on Dental Plaque in Children

The American cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon, has been reported to benefit human health Cranberry polyphenols, proanthocyanidins have been shown to inhibit in vitro biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans. We hypothesize that consumption of cranberry juice suppresses metabolic activity of children’s dental plaque biofilm. Purpose: To evaluate the effects of cranberry juice on children’s supragingival plaque regrowth and acid production . Methods: Commercially marketed unsweetened 100% pure cranberry juice (CJ) and cranberry juice cocktail (CJC, 27% juice) were used. Fifteen children (7-12 years) participated in the controlled crossover study. Overnight fasting supragingival plaque from buccal and lingual surfaces in the left maxillary and mandibular quadrants was collected (Baseline untreated plaque). Participants then consumed 10 ml of CJ, CJC or water for 30 seconds three consecutive times. After 30 minutes, their right maxillary and mandibular plaque was collected. All plaque samples were assessed for acid production and regrowth after 2 and 4hr at 37°C. Results: Consumption of 100% cranberry juice inhibited the average regrowth (~27.5 %) and acid production (ΔpH: 0.31) of children’s supragingival plaque bacteria. No significant inhibition was noted after exposure to CJC or water. Conclusions: Consumption of cranberry juice may represent a healthier alternative over popular sugary snacks for children.