Propolis Hard Candy as A Sustainable Oral Functional Confectionery for Prolonged Intraoral Antimicrobial Delivery in Dental Caries Prevention: A Literature Review

Ni Kadek Aura Sutiari; Mutiara Maharani; Wiwekowati Wiwekowati

doi:10.36733/ijassd.v8i2.14849

Authors

Ni Kadek Aura Sutiari Undergraduate Study Program of Dentistry, Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar, Indonesia
Mutiara Maharani Undergraduate Study Program of Dentistry, Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar, Indonesia
Wiwekowati Wiwekowati Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36733/ijassd.v8i2.14849

Keywords:

propolis, hard candy, antimicrobial delivery, dental caries, sustainable

Abstract

Background: Dental caries is a prevalent biofilm-mediated disease in which Streptococcus mutans plays an important role. Propolis has demonstrated antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities, but conventional oral formulations may provide limited intraoral exposure. Objectives: This review explores propolis hard candy as a potential prolonged intraoral delivery platform and considers its sustainability-oriented application in preventive oral healthcare.Methods: This narrative literature review synthesized relevant scientific literature, primarily published within the last 10 years, on the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of propolis, oral propolis formulations, controlled delivery systems, functional confectionery, and sustainable oral healthcare. Evidence was thematically analyzed to identify the potential rationale, research gaps, and future directions for propolis hard-candy development. Results: Available evidence supports the antimicrobial and antibiofilm potential of propolis against cariogenic microorganisms, particularly S. mutans. Propolis has also been incorporated into various oral and controlled delivery systems. A slowly dissolving hard-candy matrix may potentially prolong intraoral exposure and provide a convenient functional confectionery format. The proposed concept integrates natural propolis bioactivity, prolonged intraoral delivery, and sustainability-oriented preventive oral healthcare. Sustainability considerations include responsible sourcing, efficient use of bioactive ingredients, formulation and manufacturing efficiency, packaging, and waste reduction. Conclusion: Propolis hard candy represents a promising research and formulation concept for prolonged intraoral antimicrobial delivery and sustainability-oriented caries prevention. However, its preventive efficacy and sustainability remain to be established through formulation, release-kinetic, safety, sensory, environmental, and clinical studies.

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