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German scientists have invented a gum containing probiotics
Last reviewed: 30.06.2025
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Scientists from the German company BASF have developed chewing gum containing probiotics, which has a positive effect on the condition of the oral cavity and helps prevent caries.
Using biotechnology, scientists have enriched chewing gum with live lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, which are extremely beneficial for the human body, since probiotics normalize the flora of the gastrointestinal tract, reduce the risk of dysbacteriosis, and prevent the development of caries by preventing the proliferation of streptococci (Streptococcus mutans) in the oral cavity. It is streptococci that attach to tooth enamel and affect it, leading to the destruction of enamel.
Scientists have also developed toothpaste and mouthwash containing probiotics.
The probiotic chewing gum has already been tested by a large number of volunteers. The developers have already conducted clinical trials of the chewing gum on a large number of people and have come to the conclusion that it is capable of significantly reducing the number of streptococci, said BASF representative Andreas Reindl.
However, scientists warn that probiotic gum is not a substitute for regular tooth brushing, as the best way to prevent tooth decay is to reduce sugar intake and brush your teeth regularly.
Let us recall that according to the World Health Organization, about 5 million people worldwide suffer from dental caries.
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