Is there a relationship between good oral health and good health overall? Have you heard about a lollipop and chewing gum that fight cavities? The health of your oral cavity – mouth, teeth and gums – plays an important role in your overall health. For example, studies have shown a correlation between dental health and heart attacks. One proposed explanation is that poor dental hygiene causes chronic inflammation, which in turn has harmful effects on the entire body. In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day and regular flossing, what else can you do to maintain good dental health for your and your family? Here are two additional suggestions:
- Dr. Wenyuan Shi at the UCLA School of Dentistry developed a sugar-free herbal lollipop called Kavidy Kops. The orange-flavored lollipop contains an all-natural extract from the root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) that has been shown to kill cavity-causing bacteria called Streptococcus mutans in the laboratory. Diabetic friendly and gluten free, the lollipop helps maintain healthy teeth and fight cavities, which affect people of all ages. Just think, this lollipop could improve your dental health and by doing so, help prevent heart attacks!
- In addition, research has shown that chewing gum containing xylitol is an effective strategy for fighting tooth decay. Xylitol, a sweetener used as a naturally occurring sugar substitute, reduces acidity and Streptococcus mutans in the mouth, whereas gum containing sorbitol, for example, increases acidity and promotes tooth decay.