Digestive & Oral Health
Oral Health
Oral Health reviews
Oral probiotics, fresh breath and gum care products, reviewed for what's on the label and what the studies show.
What we cover
- Oral probiotics such as Streptococcus salivarius K12 and M18
- Bad breath (halitosis): causes and realistic fixes
- Xylitol gums and mints
- Gum health supplements compared with brushing and flossing
Common ingredients and the evidence
| Ingredient or option | Used for | Evidence | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| S. salivarius K12 | Fresh breath | Limited | Small studies, mixed pooled results. |
| S. salivarius M18 | Plaque, teeth and gums | Limited | Small, short trials. |
| Xylitol | Reducing cavity-causing bacteria | Limited | Toxic to dogs. |
| Fluoride toothpaste | Preventing cavities | Strong | The baseline every product is compared to. |
Ratings follow our evidence scale and are updated as new research appears.
Claims to be careful with. No supplement can "regrow" gums or reverse gum disease. Gum disease needs a dentist.
Read on the blog
See a dentist if…
Your gums bleed often, a tooth hurts or is loose, or bad breath doesn't improve with good hygiene. See a dentist.
Medical disclaimer →These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.