Monday, August 21, 2006

Helpful Bacteria in the Fight Against Tooth and Body Odor?!

Hi all,

Just saw this article on MSN, basically saying that the bacteria from yogurt may be able to reduce the numbers of "bad" bacteria (S. Mutans) in the mouth by over 50 times!

We may see this technology in the future in toothpaste and mouthwashes, here's the teaser:

Chewing gum, toothpaste and deodorant might soon contain beneficial bacteria to fight tooth decay and underarm stench.

Strepptococcus mutans, or S. Mutans, is a bacterium that causes tooth decay. S. Mutans sticks to the surface of teeth, producing an aggressive acid that breaks down the enamel.
The bacteria found in yogurt might come to the rescue. In the journal Chemistry & Industry, scientists report that a new strain of lactobacillus called L. anti-caries, forces S. Mutans to clump together, preventing them from becoming attached to the tooth surface.


For the rest of the article click here

Take care all!

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada (in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100