Cinnamon, a remarkable spice, has been revered for its medicinal attributes as well as its delightful warming aroma and flavor throughout history. It is derived from the dried bark of various trees belonging to the Cinnamomum genus. Notably, cinnamon essential oils are extracted from not just the bark but also the leaves, fruits, and flowers of the tree, offering a comprehensive range of benefits. Research indicates that certain compounds found in cinnamon possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic qualities. This could explain why, across different cultures and eras, individuals have relied on this spice for relief from toothaches and other health issues.

In this article, we will delve into the potential advantages of cinnamon for your gums, oral health, and overall dental hygiene.

How Cinnamon Combats Infections

The remarkable antimicrobial properties of cinnamon can play a significant role in battling pathogens such as bacteria and fungi. This makes it particularly valuable, as many oral infections stem from these microorganisms. Consequently, cinnamon has garnered attention as a potential remedy for various dental issues.

Among the most beneficial compounds found in cinnamon are:

• cinnamaldehyde
• cinnamic acid
• cinnamyl acetate
• cinnamyl alcohol
• coumarin
• eugenol
• linalool
• phenol
• beta-caryophyllene

Antibacterial Properties

Cinnamaldehyde stands out as one of the most potent compounds present in cinnamon, complemented by other healthy plant compounds known as polyphenols. These components exert their antibacterial effects by damaging the cell walls of bacteria and hindering their ability to divide, effectively stunting bacterial growth. Research has demonstrated the efficacy of cinnamon bark oil against the Streptococcus mutans bacterium, which is a prevalent cause of cavities, tooth decay, and enamel erosion, particularly in children who suffer from dental caries.

Antifungal Properties

Moreover, cinnamon and its active component, cinnamaldehyde, have shown effectiveness against various fungi, including certain strains of the Candida genus, which are notorious for causing yeast infections like oral thrush in the mouth and throat. While it's normal to have a small amount of Candida present on your skin and inside your body, overgrowth can lead to infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Studies have indicated that cinnamon oil can directly combat Candida albicans, while cinnamon extracts exhibit notable anti-inflammatory properties. Both the oil and the extracts have also been found to curb the development of biofilms, thereby reinforcing the mouth's protective barrier.

Additionally, research has revealed that cinnamon oil can inhibit the formation of Candida biofilm, which is a slimy layer of fungi or bacteria that can accumulate on teeth and within the oral cavity. Although biofilm is a common occurrence, if not adequately managed through regular brushing and flossing, it can evolve into plaque and contribute to gum disease. Despite these promising findings regarding cinnamon's efficacy against fungal strains and biofilm formation, further human studies are essential to fully understand its potential benefits.

Can Cinnamon Alleviate Toothaches?

Toothaches often arise from various factors such as cavities, harmful bacteria, and inflammation affecting the teeth, jaw, and surrounding areas of the mouth. A promising natural remedy, cinnamon (dalchini in Hindi), contains compounds that exhibit antibacterial properties, potentially aiding in the prevention and mitigation of toothache symptoms.

Moreover, research indicates that individuals consuming a daily cinnamon powder capsule for a duration of two months experienced reduced inflammation and reported shorter, less severe migraine episodes compared to those who received a placebo. While this study does not specifically address toothaches, it highlights cinnamon's possible anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving characteristics.

In addition, findings support the notion that cinnamon supplements may enhance antioxidant levels, reduce inflammation markers, and significantly lower concentrations of C-reactive protein and interleukin 6—both of which are crucial indicators of inflammation in the body.

Can Cinnamon Help Combat Gingivitis?

Gingivitis refers to the inflammation of the gums, primarily triggered by the accumulation of plaque or harmful bacteria. This condition often results in symptoms such as swelling and bleeding, which can lead to discomfort. If neglect persists, gingivitis may progress into a more severe form known as periodontal gum disease.

Encouragingly, recent studies suggest that cinnamon oils might play a role in the prevention of gum infections. Research indicates that the essential oil derived from cinnamon bark has the potential to inhibit Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacterium linked to the onset of gingivitis and other gum diseases.

Additionally, investigations have revealed that cinnamon oil can function as an effective antibacterial agent against Enterococcus fecalis, another bacterium commonly associated with gum disease, particularly in individuals who have undergone root canal procedures. Despite these promising findings, it is crucial to conduct more human studies to determine the effectiveness of cinnamon spice or its essential oils in treating these oral health issues in real-world scenarios, beyond laboratory settings.

Utilizing Cinnamon for Dental Care

In various traditional medicinal practices, cinnamon (dalchini) is frequently used by applying it directly to the affected areas within the mouth. Some individuals prefer to chew on cinnamon sticks, rinse their mouths with cinnamon-infused water, or combine ground cinnamon with honey and apply this mixture to painful spots. While these methods are popular, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence backing their effectiveness. Most research regarding cinnamon for alleviating toothaches and oral infections has focused on cinnamon extracts, essential oils, or specific compounds derived from cinnamon, rather than the ground spice itself.

As such, the most effective ways to incorporate cinnamon into your oral health and dental hygiene practices remain ambiguous at this moment. Nevertheless, a few studies have begun to explore the potential for integrating cinnamon into everyday dental products to enhance hygiene routines.

One study revealed that chewing on cinnamon gum for approximately 20 minutes significantly decreased the bacterial count in human saliva. However, this study's sample size was small, and similar antibacterial effects were noted in sweetened gum that did not contain cinnamon. Another piece of research indicated that cinnamon toothpaste effectively reduced the levels of Streptococcus mutans, a common bacterium associated with tooth decay.

Additionally, it was found that cinnamon oil might inhibit the formation of Candida biofilm on dental implants and dentures, suggesting that this oil could serve as a cleaning agent for dentures, retainers, mouth guards, and various other dental appliances. Overall, cinnamon and its derivatives exhibit promise as valuable components in toothpaste, mouthwash, chewing gum, herbal teas, and more. However, further investigations are necessary to solidify these findings and recommend specific applications for dental health.

Possible Side Effects

Generally, cinnamon (dalchini) is deemed safe for consumption by humans, and there is no substantial evidence indicating that it poses a toxicity risk to oral cells. However, certain individuals or those who apply it directly to their mouths might encounter specific risks. For instance, a study conducted by researchers revealed that prolonged exposure to cinnamon extract could potentially alter the composition of tooth enamel—the protective outer layer of teeth—and excessive use might lead to noticeable changes in tooth coloration. Additionally, some individuals may have sensitivities to cinnamon and its flavors, which could result in reactions characterized by swelling and inflammation in the mouth and lips.

Moreover, it is important to note that a subset of people may experience allergic reactions to cinnamon. Common signs and symptoms associated with such allergies in the oral and throat regions may include:

• swelling
• burning sensations
• soreness
• skin irritation

Finally, it is crucial to be mindful of the consumption of excessive amounts of cassia cinnamon, the variety most prevalent in culinary uses, as it may carry certain health risks due to its elevated coumarin content.

The Bottom Line

Cinnamon oils, extracts, and their active compounds have the potential to aid in the prevention of cavities, address gum disease, and combat various fungal and bacterial infections. Consequently, hygiene products infused with cinnamon may be beneficial for promoting oral health and alleviating pain. Nevertheless, relying on home remedies such as chewing cinnamon sticks or applying ground cinnamon directly to the mouth might not yield effective results. Additionally, these practices could pose risks for certain individuals, particularly those with allergies or sensitivities to this popular spice. To ensure safe and effective treatment of specific dental conditions, it is advisable to consult with your dentist or another qualified medical professional before experimenting with cinnamon or any other home remedies.