New Chewing Gum Prevents Tooth Decay

Researchers revealed recently that they have created a chewing gum that prevents tooth decay. The gum contains bacteria known as probiotic lactobacilli, a helpful bacterium, which prevents harmful bacteria in the mouth from causing damage to the teeth. Streptococcus mutans are the bacteria responsible for causing dental cavities; the lactobacilli control the streptococcus by clumping the bacteria together and preventing them from sticking to teeth.

Other products containing the friendly bacteria that are currently being investigated for production include toothpaste and mouthwash. BASF, a German chemical company, is leading the research and expects the first dental products to be available on the market in 2007.