Reuterdent: Background

Reuterdent is a novel toothpaste tablet formulation by Symbiontech that takes advantage of the antimicrobial molecules produced by L. reuteri in the form of post-biotics in combination with some other favourable plant derived bioactives.

Limosilactobacillus reuteri is an indigenous, symbiotic bacterium of the vertebrate gastrointestinal tract including humans. That means it has a mutually beneficial relationship with its hosts. Over millions of years of evolution, symbiotic bacteria like L. reuteri have acquired molecular strategies to regulate other microorganisms from colonising the host, including invasive or disease-causing microorganisms.

We suggest that Reuterdent be used for regular oral hygiene.

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L. reuteri Post-Biotics

L. reuteri has been associated with a whole range of positive health outcomes when utilised as a probiotic as well as being a producer of a whole range of antimicrobial molecules that are of pharmaceutical, health and food industry interest. Post-biotics refer to molecules (or metabolites) produced by microorganisms that can be beneficial to humans. The reuterin system (3-HPA), is the most characterised, secreted group of antimicrobial molecules produced by L. reuteri strains indigenous to humans and it is potent against a whole range of bacteria, fungi, and parasites through a whole range of mechanisms including oxidative stress. There are many additional L. reuteri derived post-biotics which are less well defined mechanistically but likely contribute to the broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties that have been identified in vitro (in the lab) and in vivo (in an host organism). It should also be noted that anti-inflammatory effects have also been attributed to L. reuteri derived post-biotics.

Of particular interest is the impact that L. reuteri post-biotics can have on the growth of pioneer plaque forming bacteria (Streptococcus sp.). It has been shown that L. reuteri can inhibit growth of bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, thus helping prevent plaque from being formed in the first place. As the post-biotics used in Reuterdent are secreted molecules, "living" L. reuteri cells are not needed to colonise the host (as would be the case for probiotic toothpastes). Thus, the toothpaste tablets can be fluoridated and contain additional antimicrobials, which contribute to the typical tooth decay prevention of toothpaste (fluoridation is also a requirement from the American Dental Association to be considered a toothpaste).

 Reuterdent Plant-derived Bioactives: 

Several plant-derived bioactives (molecules that can have an impact on physiology) have also been shown to be potent in plaque prevention and general oral hygiene and are included in Reuterdent to synergise with the L. reuteri post-biotics. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), has recently been highlighted for its effect on SARS-COV2, but has been a staple of Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda and ancient European medicines. A review of active compounds in liquorice has also indicated a marked effect against periodontal disease, oral cancer, dental caries. Contrary to popular belief, liquorice itself does not stain the teeth, and so Reuterdent includes liquorice in its formulation to support your oral hygiene.

Reuterdent and Sustainability:

Toothpaste tablets offer a more environmental solution to oral hygiene. Traditional tubes are made of mixed materials that are difficult to recycle and a significant portion of toothpaste remains in the tube and cannot be utilised easily. On the other hand, tablets are pre-portioned and can be used in their entirety. Reuterdent uses recyclable packaging that is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) approved and BPA free.

How to use?

To use Reuterdent, simply chew on a tablet to rehydrate it in your saliva (some water can be used to help in the process). Brushing with a toothbrush as normal will help further breakdown the tablet.