Source: Life Extension Foundation Ingredients: See below. Sale Price: $13.99 Take advantage of FREE air shipping in the USA! Read More . . . Did you know that gum (periodontal) disease can lead to more serious health problems? It is a gradual process that begins when plaque builds up under the gum line causing swollen and bleeding gums (gingivitis) that can lead to chronic inflammation and infection. This cascade allows bacteria to pass into the bloodstream where systemic disease can develop. Thus, maintaining a pretty smile should not be the only motivation for keeping gums healthy. It is a vital part of a proactive health maintenance regimen. Life Extension has developed a toothpaste with active ingredients that have been clinically tested and shown to keep gums healthy. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has been shown to protect against periodontal disease. A six-week study of topically applied CoQ10 showed that periodontal pocket depth decreased and healing of the gums improved. After treatment, the results were so impressive researchers had difficulty locating the disease-affected gums.1 Hydrogen peroxide can find and kill bacteria hiding among gingival folds and gaps. Its frothing action exposes anaerobic-type bacteria that thrive in an airtight environment to oxygen-rich air contained in its bubbles. Hydrogen peroxide has been used for years as an effective mouthwash as well. Xylitol is a natural sweetener used in many foods and oral hygiene products. In numerous clinical studies, xylitol has been shown to reduce tooth decay. A literature review on the effects of xylitol showed that it decreased the incidence of dental caries in test subjects by 30 to 60%.2 Finnish researchers observed in a five-year follow-up study, that regular consumption of xylitol (in this study candy was used), resulted in a "highly significant" reduction of 35 to 60% in dental caries at the three-year mark as compared to controls.3 Folic acid when topically applied can be effective in the treatment of gingivitis and the accompanying inflammation. Folic acid helps to fortify gums, making them more resilient and disease-resistant. One study showed that four weeks of rinsing with a folic acid mouthwash, twice daily, significantly reduced the symptoms of gingivitis.4 Life Extension Toothpaste is an all-natural oral hygiene product without the potentially toxic agents found in commercial brands. Other ingredients: tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic with healing properties; lactoferrin, a bacterial killer that helps to interfere with adhesion of bacteria to gum tissue; and squalene, an effective antioxidant derived from shark liver oil. Follow these steps to maintain good oral health: Minimize the consumption of food and drinks containing sugar Brush effectively after every meal Floss at least once a day Visit a dentist at least twice a year for oral health exams See a dentist immediately at any signs of oral discomfort or bleeding References Res. Commun. Chem. Pathol. Pharmacol. 1975:Sep;12(1):111-23 J. Dent. Educ. 2001: Oct;65(10):1106-9 Commun. Dent. Oral Epidemiol. 2000: Jun; 28(3):218-24 J. Clin. Periodontol. 1984:11:619-28 Dosage and Use Adults and children two years and older, brush teeth thoroughly after meals or at least twice a day, or as directed by a dentist. How to Order To order online, click on the "Order" box below. To see a list of all supplements, please check our Index or use our Search feature. If you have any questions, please contact us at info@lifeextensionvitamins.com, 1-510-527-3005 or 1-888-771-3905. LEFtoothpaste$13.99 4: oz.tube MISTORAL III WITH COQ10 - New Formula + Free Shipping! mistoral3$27.99 1: bottle/2fl.oz FREE AIR MAIL SHIPPING IN THE UNITED STATES! The statements made here have not been evaluated by the FDA. The foregoing statements are based upon sound and reliable studies, and are meant for informational purposes. Consult with your medical practitioner to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Copyright 1997-2010 Life Extension Vitamin Supplies and Life Extension Institute, Inc. All rights reserved.