Propolis has long been known for its various health benefits, especially in maintaining dental and gum health. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make propolis a promising natural ingredient for oral hygiene and the prevention of periodontal diseases.
One of the main benefits of propolis in dental care is its effectiveness in combating bacteria that cause gum disease. Research conducted by UGM Faculty of Dentistry student Kurnia Puspaningrum, together with Prof. drg. Suryono, SH., MM., Ph.D. and drg. Rezmelia Sari, M.Sc., Sp.Perio (K) , showed that toothpaste containing propolis extract exhibits antibacterial properties against periodontopathogenic bacteria, including Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, which are commonly associated with periodontal disease. In other words, using propolis-based toothpaste can help reduce the risk of gum infection and inflammation.
In addition to its use in toothpaste, propolis also has potential as an additive in periodontal treatment. According to research by UGM Faculty of Dentistry student Rizal Hanif D, in collaboration with Prof. drg. Suryono, SH., MM., Ph.D. and drg. Nur Rahman Ahmad Seno Aji, MDSc., Sp.Perio(K) , propolis can be used in periodontal dressing—a protective material applied after gum treatment procedures to aid in faster healing, pain relief, and inflammation reduction. This suggests that propolis plays a role not only in preventing dental and gum diseases but also in accelerating recovery after periodontal procedures.
Thanks to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, propolis is a promising natural ingredient for maintaining oral health. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 on innovation and SDG 12 on responsible consumption and production. Using oral care products that contain propolis, such as toothpaste or mouthwash, offers a natural alternative for those seeking to maintain optimal oral health—supporting SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
References
Kurnia Puspaningrum, Prof. drg. Suryono, SH., MM., Ph.D., drg. Rezmelia Sari, M.Sc., Sp.Perio (K), Antibacterial Effectiveness of Propolis Extract Toothpaste Against the Growth of Periodontopathogenic Bacteria (An In Vitro Study on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis), https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/185770
Rizal Hanif D, Prof. drg. Suryono, SH., MM., Ph.D., drg. Nur Rahman Ahmad Seno Aji, MDSc., Sp.Perio(K), The Potential of Propolis as an Additive in Periodontal Dressing, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/194878
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Editor: Shinta
Photo: Freepik
