BASF, the German chemical company, is coming out with a gum that contains "good" bacteria to combat the "bad" bacteria that causes tooth decay. Cavities start when certain bacteria adhere to the surfaces of teeth and produce acid to breakdown the hard outer enamel surface. The bacteria in the gum causes the cavity producing bacteria to clump together preventing it from attaching to the tooth surface. Tests indicate that a 50% reduction in bacteria is possible by chewing the gum.
Source: AGD Impact, (Dental News), December 2006, vol 34, no 11, pg 24 and Marina Murphy from Chemistry & Industry
Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100