Mushrooms contain “erythritol”, a naturally occurring sugar, whose sweetness is 70 to 80%equalent to sucrose. Erythritol is found to be non cariogenic sweetener. This is so because Streptococcus mutuans one of the chief cause for dental caries, cannot use this sugar. Hence, there is no production of lactic acid and no formation of dental caries.
Some studies also showed that, Low Molecular Mass Extract (LMM) from the edible mushrooms, had bacteriostatic activity against S.mutans. This molecule also interferes in the adhesion of this bacterium to the tooth surface.
Further, edible mushrooms are rich in vitamin D, which helps in calcium absorption. This enhances the mineralization of the teeth and also aids in remineralization of incipient carious lesion
Mushrooms are also known for their higher water and fibre content. This property of mushrooms can have cleansing effect on the tooth surface.
Hence, edible mushrooms can be regarded as the one of the economic and easily available caries inhibiting natural agent. Its use can be recommended for the developing countries for caries prevention.
But, not all the mushrooms are safe and have the similar natural properties. For this, greater amount of research over the mushrooms has to be done to definitely prove that, they have caries preventive effect.