The present invention provides a novel composition of matter comprised of a mixture of two specific classes of compounds --Free-B-Ring flavonoids and flavans-- for use in the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions associated with mouth, gums and teeth. This composition of matter simultaneously inhibits
cyclooxygenase (COX) and
lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymatic activity and reduces
cytokine production at the
mRNA level in normal, aged and damaged periodontal cells and tissues. This invention further provides a method for the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, gums and teeth. The method for preventing and treating diseases and conditions of the mouth, teeth and gums is comprised of administering to a host in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a composition comprising a mixture of Free-B-Ring flavonoids and flavans synthesized and / or isolated from a
single plant or multiple plants, preferably in the
Scutellaria, Oroxylum,
Acacia or
Uncaria genus of plants and pharmaceutically and / or cosmetically acceptable carriers. Finally the present invention provides a method for the prevention and treatment of diseases and conditions of the mouth, teeth or gums, including but not limited to periodontal diseases, such as
gingivitis,
periodontitis,
pulpitis, periodontal conditions caused by the physical implantation of oral
dentures, trauma, injuries, bruxism, neoplastic and other degenerative processes; material alba, pellicles, dental plagues, calculus, and stains. Use of the composition described herein also affords the benefit of maintaining optimum
saliva production and pH, minimizing
bacterial growth, reducing the formation of pellicles and plague, inhibiting tooth decalcification and
tooth caries (decay), promoting remineralization, which yields healthy gums, whitening teeth, maintaining healthy
oral hygiene and reducing oral malodour (halitosis).