Scientists have developed a chewing gum containing friendly bacteria which they say can help prevent tooth decay.

Probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus anti-caries, in gum have been tested in hundreds of people and have been proven to reduce the concentration of naughty bacteria in your mouth that cause tooth decay. You’ll still have to brush and floss regularly, but it will help reduce your cavities.

Dr Andreas Reindl of BASF said: “The effectiveness has been demonstrated and the first oral hygiene products containing probiotic lactobacilli are scheduled to appear in 2007.”

Probiotic bacteria is also being tested to reduce body odor by using Lactobacillus anti-caries in deodorant. This might sound a bit gross, but we have friendly bacteria living all over our bodies.