“Natural molecule” made this sound a bit like it would be a pseudo-science article at first, but it doesn’t appear to be! The molecule in question is 3,3′-Diindolylmethane, and by “natural” they just mean it is found in nature.

I hate this click-baity headline. But this is pretty interesting.

Most of the world’s population either chronically suffers from plaque and dental cavities or will develop them at some point in their lives. Toothpastes, mouthwashes, and regular checkups do their part, but more could always be done. Ben-Gurion University of the Negev scientists and their colleagues at Sichuan University and the National University of Singapore have discovered that 3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM), a naturally occurring molecule also known as bisindole, reduces the biofilms that produce plaque and cavities by 90%. The molecule is also found to have anti-carcinogenic properties. (my bolding)

Now the problem with this for me personally is, DIM has an awful smell–it smells like “old people” in a particularly unpleasant way.

But I can see this being pretty interesting substance to add to DIY toothpastes.

Wow! I knew I recognized that compound! It’s found in high concentrations in broccoli!