Antibiofilm properties of anthocyanin fraction from blue pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) and betacyanin fraction from red dragon fruit (Hylocerus polyrhizus) against dental plaque formations

This study demonstrated that anthocyanins from butterfly pea flowers and betacyanins from red dragon fruit can effectively inhibit the formation and disrupt existing dental plaque caused by three harmful oral bacteria (Streptococcus mutans, Actinomyces viscosus, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans). For Streptococcus mutans, these natural compounds do this by targeting the way bacteria produce energy and build their protective walls, preventing them from sticking to teeth and creating the acidic environment that causes cavities. These natural compounds were also found to be safe for gum tissues, making them promising candidates for developing new, natural oral care products.