Aloe vera gel is better than toothpaste for fighting decay

Bad teeth and gums are an unsuspected cause of many chronic conditions – and now there’s an alternative type of toothpaste that dentists are discovering is one of the best for fighting decay and inflammation.

Aloe vera gel is a more effective germ-fighter than some commercially-available toothpaste, dentists have been told in a new study.  And it’s ideal for people with sensitive teeth and gums as it is less abrasive than standard toothpaste.

But people need to be careful about the gel they buy, warns Dilip George, co-author of the study.  The best products contain the stabilised gel, from the centre of the aloe vera plant, and the manufacturing process should avoid excessive heat or filtration as this can destroy some of the active ingredients.  Dr George suggests consumers should contact independent groups such as the International Aloe Science Council for advice before buying.

(Source: General Dentistry, 2009; 57: 238-41).