Gum prevents tooth decay

A new gum that uses beneficial bacteria can help prevent tooth decay. This product will be launched early next year.

According to the inventors of BASF of Germany, this new gum contains a type of Lactobacillus bacteria - bacteria found in yogurt (milk bacteria), which can attack bacteria that cause tooth decay, prevent them from clinging to teeth.

Lactobacillus' attack target is Strepptococcus mutans, also called S. Mutans, a bacterium that attaches to the surface of the tooth, producing a strong acid that breaks down tooth enamel and causes tooth decay.

Stefan Marcinowski, BASF's chief executive, said their product " has been tested on a large number of people and has demonstrated the ability to significantly reduce harmful bacteria for teeth". 'This bacterium persists for a long time and is quite safe, ' Marcinowski said.

BASF is also working on creating other bacterial products, including toothpaste products, tooth brushes and deodorants. They have not yet published details of their plans and only acknowledge the ' milk bacteria product ' will be released in 2007.

WALL VY