Your mouth is teaming with good and bad bacteria and the Lactobacillus species of bacteria has long been associated with cases of dental cavities (caries), because lactic acid can corrode teeth. In fact, the Lactobacillus count in saliva has been used as a “caries test” for many years.

The good news is that the L. salivarius strain of bacteria has been successfully used to treat a number of oral health conditions. Foods such as tomatoes, bananas, artichokes, asparagus, chicory roots, and garlic contain this cavity fighter.

In 2009 study researchers found that L. salivarius reduced the population of bacteria that causes gum disease in 66 volunteers.

In another 2014 study, consumption of tablets containing L. salivarius significantly reduced the number of mutants streptococci that cause caries, and thus increased resistance to caries risk factors.

Other studies have found that use of the probiotic L. salivarius reduced halitosis and improved overall periodontal health in smokers.

To get a sufficient dose of this good stuff you may need an oral probiotic but using food to keep your smile beautiful is a great strategy.

Try this tomato chocked recipe that also has the benefits of basil, thyme olive, eggplant and zucchini. You can’t lose wit this one and as I always recommend you can make it and have it for a few days.