Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Tooth Decay
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Probiotics | Add 5 to 10 x 105 CFU per ml to milk or formula |  [3 stars] Supplementing with probiotics may inhibit cavity-causing bacteria. |
Xylitol | Chew gum containing xylitol regularly | [3 stars] Chewing gum with xylitol, a sugar substitute, may reduce the activity of cavity-causing bacteria. |
Fish Oil | 3 tsp per day of cod liver oil |  [2 stars] One trial showed that children given cod liver oil for an entire school year had over 50% fewer new cavities. |
Neem | 1 gram of leaf extract in gel applied to teeth twice per day | [2 stars] Neem leaf extract has been shown to reduce plaque and bacteria levels in the mouth. |
Vitamin B6 | For adults: 20 mg per day in capsules or lozenges; for children: 9 mg daily | [2 stars] Vitamin B6 appears to increase growth of beneficial mouth bacteria and decrease growth of cavity-causing bacteria. |
Sorbitol | Add 5 to 10 x 10e5 CFU per ml to milk or formula |  [1 star] Chewing gum with sorbitol, a sugar substitute, may reduce the activity of cavity-causing bacteria. |
Strontium | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Communities with strontium in their water supply appear to have a reduced risk of dental caries. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.