Want to know the secret to a healthy smile? It's on the tip of your tongue!

Dental Expert Dr James Goolnik, founder of Optimal Dental Health, London, explains how and why the secret to a healthy smile is, genuinely, on the tip of your tongue. Or can be, if you follow some simple advice from Dr Goolnilk.

He told That's Food and Drink: “Do you want one simple habit to get a healthier smile? 

"Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol, after meals, is scientifically proven to reduce cavities, neutralise harmful acids, and keep your breath fresh – and my go-to gum is Peppersmith Gum. 

"Why xylitol? It’s a natural sugar alternative that bacteria simply can't digest, meaning it actively fights against tooth decay. 

"It stops bacteria from sticking to your teeth, lowering plaque build-up and reducing the risk of cavities and bad breath. Xylitol also helps to neutralise acid and strengthen enamel. Every time you eat, acids from food and drinks attack your teeth. 

"Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which helps wash away acid and protect your enamel. Finally, xylitol helps to freshen breath naturally; unlike sugary mints and gum that mask bad breath and contribute to cavities, xylitol gum reduces the bacteria that cause bad breath, giving you long-lasting freshness.”

James Goolnik BDS MSc, is a dentist who has a genuine and deep passion for nutrition. Previously President of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, he's now head judge of the Private Dentistry Awards and he lectures internationally on the mouth-body connection. 

Twice voted ‘the most influential person in dentistry in the UK’, James is the Founder of Optimal Dental Health in London (www.optimaldentalhealth.co.uk), a member of The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology and fully SMART certified.

Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol after meals is scientifically proven to reduce cavities, neutralise harmful acids, and keep your breath minty fresh - and Peppersmith Gum is bursting with this tooth-loving hero. 

With proper British mint from a relatively tiny farm in Hampshire, Peppersmith’s sugar free Peppermint Gum and Spearmint Gum taste totally mintylicious, whilst also proactively cleaning your mouth.

Only the finest mint makes the cut, and once harvested, it’s distilled into the very best, pure mint oil. Fresh! Xylitol, a plant-based, natural sugar alternative, works to keep this freshness by reducing the harmful bacteria that cause plaque build-up, tooth decay and bad breath.

Like the rest of the Peppersmith range (yes, there’s more), Peppersmith chewing gum is approved by the Oral Health Foundation and recommended by a growing bank of dentists and dental health professionals across the country.

Not a fan of gum? Try Peppersmith’s award-winning Peppermint Mints or for extra punch, their Extra Strong Mints with explosive eucalyptus. There’s also deliciously zingy Lemon Mints and berry-tastic Strawberry Pastilles, both a huge hit with big and little kids alike.

Plus the Peppermint Mints and both flavours of Gum now come in Mighty Pouches – for freshness to the max, or sharing, and if you can’t decide which flavour to pick, there’s a totally tantalising mixed taster box bursting with all of them. The perfect way to taste what all the fuss is about.

And, of course, absolutely all Peppersmith products are sugar free, gluten free, vegan friendly, free from palm oil and nut free – and because they contain plant-based sweetener xylitol, they represent a healthier choice for your teeth, gums and smile.

Peppersmith Mints, Gum and Pastilles cost from £1.35 (15g gum, Ocado) and are available from health shops and supermarkets nationwide, including Holland & Barrett, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s and now Starbucks and all WHSmith’s Travel Outlets.

The all-new Mighty Pouches of gum and mints cost from £3 (50g Ocado), and the

mixed taster boxes cost £17.99 and are available from Peppersmith direct, via www.peppersmith.co.uk.

Why You Should Consider Switching to Indian Neem Toothpaste

In the world of oral care, there’s a growing interest in traditional, natural remedies that have stood the test of time. One such remedy is neem, a plant that has been used in India for centuries for its remarkable health benefits, particularly in oral hygiene. 

Neem toothpaste is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. If you’re looking for a toothpaste that combines natural ingredients with effective oral care, here’s why you should consider switching to Indian neem toothpaste.

1. Powerful Antibacterial Properties

Neem is renowned for its potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. This makes neem toothpaste highly effective in fighting off harmful bacteria in the mouth, which are often responsible for plaque, cavities, and gum disease. Regular use of neem toothpaste can help prevent these common dental issues, promoting a healthier mouth overall.

2. Natural Ingredients, No Harsh Chemicals

One of the primary reasons people are making the switch to neem toothpaste is to avoid the harsh chemicals found in many conventional toothpastes. Neem toothpaste typically contains natural ingredients like neem oil or neem leaf extract, combined with other herbal components such as clove or mint. These ingredients work together to clean and protect your teeth without the need for artificial additives, flavours, or preservatives.

3. Promotes Gum Health

Gum disease is a major concern for many people, and neem has long been used in traditional Indian medicine to treat and prevent gum-related issues. Neem’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated gums, reduce swelling, and prevent bleeding. Using neem toothpaste regularly can help maintain healthy gums and prevent the onset of gum disease.

4. Freshens Breath Naturally

Bad breath is often caused by bacteria in the mouth, and neem’s antibacterial properties make it an excellent natural remedy for this common problem. Neem toothpaste can help eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean. The addition of natural ingredients like mint or clove also adds a pleasant, long-lasting freshness.

5. Environmentally Friendly

In addition to being beneficial for your health, neem toothpaste is also a more eco-friendly choice. Many neem toothpastes are produced by brands that prioritise sustainability, using biodegradable ingredients and recyclable packaging. By choosing neem toothpaste, you’re making a choice that’s better for the environment, reducing your impact on the planet.

6. Supports Traditional and Ethical Practices

When you choose neem toothpaste, you’re also supporting traditional Indian practices and often, ethical companies that source their ingredients responsibly. Neem is sustainably harvested, and many neem toothpaste brands work with local communities in India, ensuring fair trade practices and supporting local economies.

7. Suitable for Sensitive Teeth

For those with sensitive teeth, finding the right toothpaste can be a challenge. Neem toothpaste, with its natural, gentle ingredients, is often a great choice for those with sensitivity. It cleans effectively without causing irritation or exacerbating sensitivity, making it a soothing option for daily use.

Conclusion

Switching to Indian neem toothpaste is more than just embracing a natural alternative—it’s about choosing a product that offers powerful oral care benefits rooted in centuries-old traditions. Neem’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties provide comprehensive protection against common dental issues, all while being gentle on your mouth and the environment.

If you’re looking to enhance your oral hygiene routine with a toothpaste that’s as effective as it is natural, neem toothpaste is certainly worth considering. By making the switch, you’re not only prioritising your health but also supporting sustainable and ethical practices that benefit both people and the planet.