Aloe vera 'fights cavities'

Washington, July 18 (ANI): Apart from being magically beneficial for sunburns, minor cuts, skin irritation, and many other ailments, aloe vera's healing power extends to teeth and gums, says a new study.

Recently, aloe vera has gained some popularity as an active ingredient in tooth gel, where it is used to cleanse and soothe teeth and gums, and is as effective as toothpaste to fight cavities.

Aloe vera tooth gel is intended to perform the same function as toothpaste, which is to eliminate pathogenic oral microflora-disease-causing bacteria-in the mouth.

The ability of aloe vera tooth gel to successfully perform that function has been a point of contention for some dental professionals.

And the new research could alleviate the concern, as it revealed that the aloe vera tooth gel was just as effective, and in some cases more effective, than the commercially popular toothpastes at controlling cavity-causing organisms.

Aloe latex contains anthraquinones, which are chemical compounds that are used in healing and arresting pain because they are anti-inflammatory in nature.

But, because aloe vera tooth gel tends to be less harsh on teeth, as it does not contain the abrasive elements typically found in commercial toothpaste, it is a great alternative for people with sensitive teeth or gums.

Dilip George, MDS, co-author of the study, explained that aloe "must not be treated with excessive heat or filtered during the manufacturing process, as this destroys or reduces the effects of certain essential compounds, such as enzymes and polysaccharides."

The study has been published in the latest issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry's (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed journal. (ANI)