Product Reviews and Information for Gum Disease
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CL Answer
Do any supplements help with gum disease or periodontitis?
Supplements for healthy gums may help with gum disease or periodontitis. Learn more about omega fatty acids, lycopene, and probiotics.
Clinical Update
10/25/2022
Vitamin D for Gum Disease?
Does supplementing with vitamin D help treat gum disease? Find out what research suggests in the Periodontal Disease section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review.
Also, see our article about supplements for gum disease or periodontitis.
Clinical Update
6/02/2023
Fish Oil for Gum Disease?
Does taking fish oil after dental "deep cleaning" reduce bleeding and pocketing around teeth in people with severe gum disease? Find out what a recent study showed in the Periodontitis section of our Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.
Product Review
CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements Review
Find the Best CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements and Learn How They Differ
CL Answer
Which ingredients should toothpastes and other dental products contain, and which should be avoided?
Learn about ingredients you want in your toothpaste, mouthwash and other dental products and which ingredients you may want to avoid.
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of manuka honey, and is it safe?
Manuka honey health benefits, how it differs from common, store-bought honey, safety, evidence for using manuka honey for wounds, sore throat and cough, constipation and more.
Product Review
Probiotic Supplements Review (Including Pet Probiotics)
Probiotics: See What They Really Contain and Our Top Picks
Clinical Update
6/17/2022
Managing Bleeding Gums
Find out which ingredients can help prevent gum disease and our Top Picks toothpaste and mouthwash for bleeding gums in our updated answer to the question about finding the best toothpaste.
Clinical Update
8/28/2018
Probiotics for Gum Disease
Can probiotic lozenges improve gum health when used in conjunction with oral cleanings? Find out what studies are showing in the Periodontitis section of the Probiotics Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among probiotic supplements for other uses.)
CL Answer
How do I choose the best probiotic supplement? There are so many different strains of bacteria!
Information on how to choose the best probiotic supplement based on safety and our lab test on probiotic bacteria content.
Product Review
Prebiotic Supplements Review
You Can't Tell How Much Fiber Is Really In Most Prebiotics Without Testing
Product Review
Plant-Based Milks Review (Almond, Cashew, Coconut, Flax, Hemp, Macadamia, Oat, Pea, and Soy)
Find the Best Non-Dairy Milk Alternative. ConsumerLab Tests Reveal What's Really In Plant-Based Milks.
Product Review
Lion's Mane and Chaga Supplements Review
Read Labels Carefully -- Many Can Mislead
Product Review
Joint Health Supplements Review (Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM, Boswellia, Collagen and Turmeric)
One-Third of Joint Health Supplements Failed to Pass Our Tests. See Which Passed or Failed, and our Top Picks.
Product Review
Protein Powders, Shakes, and Meal Replacements Review
Find Out Which Protein Products Passed or Failed Our Tests
Product Review
Olive Leaf Extract Supplements Review
Learn What Olive Leaf Does and the Best Brands
Product Review
Electrolytes & Sports Drinks Review
See Which Sports Drinks, Powders, and Pills Deliver the Right Electrolytes
CL Answer
8 Supplements That May Help Treat Peptic Ulcers – And Some to Avoid
Peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori infection are typically treated with antibiotics, but certain supplements may also help. Find out which 8 supplements might be beneficial - and which should be avoided.
Product Review
Lavender and Tea Tree Essential Oils Review
Oils Tested for Authenticity and Purity
Product Review
Mangosteen Juice and Supplements Review Article
What Are the Benefits of Mangosteen Juice and Supplements? Find Out What Mangosteen Can and Cannot Do For Your Health.
Product Review
Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements and Spices Review
See Our Top Picks Among Turmeric Products
Product Review
Quercetin & Rutin Supplements Review
Quality's a Concern With Quercetin and Rutin Supplements -- Only 17% of Claimed Amount In One
Product Review
SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine) Supplements Review
Choose the Best SAMe Supplement and Save Money
CL Answer
What are the health benefits of black cumin seed (black seed) oil?
Find out if black seed oil has health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure or cholesterol, asthma, weight loss, and others. Dosage, forms, including black seed oil and black seed powder, safety information, using black seed oil in foods and more. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
What are omega-7 fatty acids? Do I need to take these if I already take fish oil?
Learn what omega-7 fatty acids are and if you need to also take them while taking fish oil. See the varying amounts of omega-7 fatty acids in fish and krill oil supplements.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help for ulcerative colitis?
Find out what supplements & vitamins can help with ulcerative colitis, such as VSL#3, curcumin, aloe or boswellia.
Recalls & Warnings
June 19, 2023
A&Z Pharmaceutical Warned for Promoting Calcium & Vitamin D for Hair Loss, Osteoporosis & Cancer
On June 1, 2023, the FDA issued a warning letter to A&Z Pharmaceutical, Inc. following inspection of the company’s website and social media, which found statements about the company’s Chewable Calcium 600MG with Vitamin D for Kids in Orange Flavor products to be drug claims.
CL Answer
Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?
Find out which supplements help improve memory, brain function and cognition, including fish oil, some B vitamins, cocoa, and curcumin. ConsumerLab's answer explains the evidence for supplements promoted to help with brain function and cognition.
Clinical Update
9/19/2023
Vitamin D for Gingivitis?
A recent study showed that taking vitamin D reduced gum inflammation. Get the details in the Periodontal disease section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.
CL Answer
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): How can I avoid PFAS in dental floss, food, water, and other products?
Some brands of dental floss, including Oral-B Glide, may contain potentially toxic chemicals known as PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances). Get the details, and learn which floss and pick products are our Top Picks.
Clinical Update
1/12/2024
Pricey Toothpaste for Gum Health?
Tartar Control Fluoride Toothpaste by Smileactives is promoted as “supporting healthy gums” but is it worth $36 per tube? Find out in the Preventing bleeding gums section of our article about toothpastes and other dental products, which includes our Top Picks among products for bleeding gums, preventing cavities, desensitization, dry mouth, and bad breath.
Clinical Update
10/28/2022
Does Collagen Reduce Gum Inflammation?
Learn if taking a daily collagen supplement after dental cleaning reduced subsequent swelling and bleeding of the gums in the Healing of skin and tendon injuries section of our Collagen Supplements Review.
See our separate article about the best toothpaste and mouthwash for reducing bleeding gums.
CL Answer
Does silica have health benefits? What is BioSil, and can it really increase collagen production and strengthen hair, skin, nails and bones?
Information about the health effects of silica (silicon dioxide) and orthosilicic acid (an ingredient in BioSil), including whether these forms of silicon can really increase collagen production, thicken hair, strengthen nails & bones.
Clinical Update
6/24/2022
Salt Water for Gums?
Can rinsing with salt water reduce plaque build-up or help with bleeding gums?
CL Answer
Sugar Substitutes: Pros, Cons, and Best Choices
Learn about the pros and cons of using sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners in place of table sugar. Sweeteners discussed include stevia, monk fruit, and other high-intensity sweeteners; xylitol, erythritol, allulose and other low-calorie sweeteners; and agave syrup, coconut sugar, honey, molasses and other sugar alternatives.
Clinical Update
2/03/2021
Vitamin C for Bleeding Gums?
Does vitamin C supplementation reduce the tendency for gums to bleed? Find out what research shows in the What It Does section of our Vitamin C Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin C.
Clinical Update
5/29/2014
Probiotic Gum for Throat Infections
A gum containing a probiotic has been found to significantly reduce the incidence of throat infections in children and has been approved to promote oral health and reduce bad breath. For more details, as well as our tests of probiotic supplements, see the update in the Probiotic Supplements Review >>
Clinical Update
3/01/2024
Bleeding Gums: New Mouthwash Top Pick
Find out why we we’ve chosen a new Top Pick mouthwash to help prevent bleeding gums.
Also, find out why using mouthwash too many times per day might be unsafe.
Clinical Update
6/28/2024
Peelu Chewing Gum?
Peelu Chewing Gum claims to be helpful for “cleansing and whitening” your teeth, but does it work? Find out in our article about toothpaste and other dental products.
CL Answer
Is canola oil good or bad for you? I heard it can be toxic.
Find out if canola oil is bad for you or good for you, and whether it helps heart health. Clinical evidence and how it compares to other oils.
Recalls & Warnings
April 17, 2020
Seller of Vitamin D, MSM, Selenium & More Warned for Drug Claims
On March 31, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to KetoKerri LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about some of the company's products, including Dr.
Clinical Update
1/30/2024
Toothpaste Flavor Causes Sensitivity
Learn which flavoring ingredient in toothpaste can cause gum sensitivity in our article about toothpaste and other dental products.
CL Answer
Which supplements, foods or diet and lifestyle changes help relieve acid reflux (heartburn), and which worsen it?
Find out which supplements and foods can help relieve acid reflux, and which can make it worse.
CL Answer
Can N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG) really help improve symptoms of bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Find out if N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG) can help improve symptoms of bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
CL Answer
Do supplements help with Parkinson’s disease treatment or prevention?
Learn what has been shown with vitamins D and E, niacin, CoQ10, melatonin, creatine, SAMe, NAC, valerian, CoQ10, and CBD, as well as with coffee and the Mediterranean and MIND diets for treating and/or preventing Parkinson's disease.
Clinical Update
1/31/2020
Not Enough Vitamin C
Vitamin C deficiency is known to cause scurvy, characterized by bleeding gums and other connective tissue problems. But vitamin C deficiency was recently reported to cause a very different array of symptoms in several people. Learn more in the What It Does section of the Vitamin C Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin C.
Clinical Update
5/27/2022
Prebiotics for Reducing Appetite?
Can adding prebiotics (such as fructooligosaccharides (FOS) or partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG)) to meals help increase satiety or reduce appetite? Find out what a recent study showed in the All About Prebiotics section of the Probiotics Supplements Review.
Clinical Update
1/31/2023
What Helps or Worsens Reflux?
Find out if the following improve, or worsen, symptoms of acid reflux:
- Turmeric & Curcumin
- Menthol (in toothpastes, mouthwashes and chewing gum)
- Alanine
- Glutamine
- Glycine
Clinical Update
11/28/2023
Coconut Oil for Oral Health?
Can rinsing with coconut oil (known as coconut oil “pulling”) prevent plaque buildup and reduce bleeding gums? Find out in our article about finding the best toothpastes and other dental products.
Also see our Top Picks for coconut oil in our Coconut and MCT Oils Review.
Clinical Update
12/01/2023
Dental Tape vs. Floss
Find out if dental tape or dental floss is better for cleaning teeth, and get our take on drTung’s Smart Floss and if it is a Top Pick.
Also find out if toothbrushes, GUM dental picks, or Listerine flossers contain PFAS.
Clinical Update
12/05/2023
Toothpaste Abrasiveness
We’ve added information about the abrasiveness of several Arm & Hammer toothpastes to table covering over 50 popular toothpastes. Also see our Top Picks among toothpastes for preventing cavities, reducing sensitivity, bleeding gums, surface stains, dry mouth, and bad breath.
Clinical Update
7/21/2023
When to Floss
- Should you floss before or after brushing? See what research shows.
- Does rinsing with hydrogen peroxide change the microbiome of the mouth? Find out.
- How abrasive is Crest Pro-Health Gum and Sensitivity toothpaste? Learn what its maker told us.
Clinical Update
6/18/2024
Mouthwash Caution
A popular alcohol-containing mouthwash increased the abundance of cancer-related bacteria in the mouth. Get the details in the Mouthwash section of our article about toothpaste and other dental products, which includes our Top Pick mouthwash for bleeding gums.
CL Answer
Do any supplements or foods benefit people with Crohn's disease? Are there any supplements that should be avoided?
Find out the most common vitamin and mineral deficiencies in people with Crohn's disease, including iron, B6, B12, vitamin D, zinc and others, plus evidence for N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG), fish oil, and curcumin.
CL Answer
Can curcumin help prevent or improve symptoms of Alzheimer's disease?
Information on studies of the evidence around the effects of turmeric/curcumin and Alzheimer's.
CL Answer
With herbal supplements, what is the difference between root powder and root extract? Does it matter?
Learn more about the different forms of herbal supplements, including aloe, boswellia, ginkgo, green tea, and milk thistle.
CL Answer
What is magnesium stearate, what is it made from, and is it dangerous?
Learn more about magnesium stearate and its safety, based on evidence from clinical studies.
CL Answer
Are people with kidney disease at risk of getting too much potassium if they take a multivitamin? Which multivitamins are best for people with kidney disease?
Learn if people with kidney disease are at increased risk of getting too much potassium from multivitamins, find out which multivitamins do not contain potassium, and learn what other products should be avoided by people restricting potassium intake.
CL Answer
Can collagen or gelatin (including gelatin capsules) be contaminated the infectious agent that causes "mad cow disease"?
Find out if collagen and gelatin (including gelatin capsules) derived from cows might be contaminated with the agent that causes "mad cow disease."
Recalls & Warnings
October 24, 2012
Garlic Supplement Maker Warned For Misbranding and Drug Claims
On October 10, 2012, the FDA issued a letter to dietary supplement manufacturer Garlic Wise because statements made in a brochure about the company’s Alli-C garlic supplement promote the product as a drug. Alli-C was also found to be misbranded due to inadequate directions for use.
Clinical Update
10/28/2022
Zinc Deficiency & Bowel Disease
A recent study showed zinc deficiency to be extremely common among people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (the most common forms of inflammatory bowel disease or IBD). Find out more and if zinc supplements may help in the Zinc deficiency section of our Zinc Supplements Review.
Learn more about supplements for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Clinical Update
8/09/2022
Vitamin E for Fatty Liver Disease?
Can vitamin E improve liver health in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)? Get the details in the Liver Disease section of our Vitamin E Supplements Review.
Also see our CL Answer about Supplements for Fatty Liver Disease.
Recalls & Warnings
May 09, 2022
FDA Warns Five Companies for Selling CBD Supplements, Gummies and Creams With Delta-8 THC
On May 4th, 2022, the FDA issued warning letters to five companies for selling CBD and other products labeled as containing delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC).
Recalls & Warnings
November 23, 2022
CBD Not Permitted in Gummies, Candies, Cookies, Candy, or Pet Treats, Says FDA
On November 16, 2022, the FDA issued warning letters to five companies for selling products such as gummies, tea, cookies, lollipops, fruit snacks, hard candies, and pet treats containing cannabidiol (CBD) and/or delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC) as conventional food products.
Recalls & Warnings
August 30, 2012
Supplement Company Warned For Medical Claims and Misbranding Of Omega-3, CoQ10, Noni Juice And More
On July 12, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Alfa Vitamins Laboratories, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
May 10, 2013
Maker of Concentration, Pain, Immune, Cholesterol Supplements Warned For Drug Claims
On April 24, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to EuroPharma Co., Inc., following a review of the company's website which found statements made about Calm Kids, CholestCaps, CuraMed 375 mg, CuraMed 750 mg, Curamin, Mental Advantage, Tri-Iodine, and Viragen to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
October 10, 2014
Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Multiple Drugs
On October 10, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use the dietary supplement Japan Hokkaido Slimming Weight Loss Pills because it was found to multiple contain undeclared drugs, including sibutramine, phenolphthalein, benzocaine and diclofenac.
Recalls & Warnings
January 22, 2016
Male Enhancement Gum and Pills Contain Hidden Drug
On January 21, 2016, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following sexual enhancement supplements, because they were found to contain undeclared vardenafil (click on the name of each supplement to read the FDA's complete warning):
Recalls & Warnings
September 16, 2015
Weight And Enhancement Supplement Recall Expanded
On September 11, 2015, One Minute Miracle Inc. issued a recall of all lots the following supplements which were found to contain undeclared drugs:
Recalls & Warnings
November 06, 2014
Seller of Cholesterol, Arthritis Supplements and More Warned for Drug Claims
On October 17, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Vitamins Direct (USA) and Golden Pride, Inc., which distribute Flexezy and Physician's Signature brands of dietary supplements, following a facility inspection which found statements made about certain supplements to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
August 30, 2015
Weight and Enhancement Supplements Recalled
On August 27, 2015, One Minute Miracle Inc. issued a recall of one lot each the following supplements which were found to contain undeclared drugs:
Recalls & Warnings
June 01, 2012
Homeopathic Manufacturer Settles False Advertising Suit
June 1, 2012 — A federal court in California recently authorized the settlement of a class action lawsuit against Boiron Inc. and Boiron USA, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
July 04, 2017
FDA Warns Against Company's Unsafe Teething Tablets
On June 20, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Raritan Pharmaceuticals, Inc. following a routine inspection of the facility when it found the company's Homeopathic Infant's Teething Tablets in violation of current good manufacturing practice (CGMP) regulations.
Recalls & Warnings
December 16, 2013
Weight Loss Capsules Recalled Due Allergen Risk
On December 13, 2013, Stone Independent Research, Inc. issued recall of one lot of Zanocap Scientific Weight Loss 500 mg capsules because they contain undeclared whey protein, which is derived from milk.
Recalls & Warnings
May 14, 2016
Xylitol in Supplements Poses Danger for Dogs
On May 12, 2016, the FDA warned consumers that xylitol, a popular sweetener found in chewable vitamins, chewing gum, breath mints, toothpaste and a variety of other products, is toxic to dogs.
Recalls & Warnings
October 17, 2015
"Herbal Viagra" Taken by Lamar Odom Was a Known Problem
It was reported this week that former NBA star, Lamar Odom, entered a coma after taking as many as 10 pills of the "herbal Viagra" formula Reload, along with cocaine.
Recalls & Warnings
June 17, 2004
FTC Challenges Deceptive Weight Loss Claims for Supplement Targeted at Hispanics
On June 17, 2004, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a new law enforcement action challenging false advertising for the 1-2-3 Diet Kit, a purported weight loss product.
Recalls & Warnings
November 02, 2012
Manufacturer of Prostate, Inflammation and Cholesterol Supplements Warned For Drug Claims
On October 15, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Ortho Molecular Products, Inc. for making drug claims about the following dietary supplements: Candicid Forte, Inflamma-bLOX, Lipitrol, Mucosagen, Prostatrol Forte, Resvoxitrol, Paracid Forte, VascuPak HTN and Lithium Orotate.
Recalls & Warnings
September 26, 2014
Sellers of Essential Oils Warned for Claiming to Treat Ebola, Other Diseases
On September 22, 2014, the FDA issued a warning to Young Living following a review of websites, Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter accounts owned by Young Living distributors, which found statements made about the company's essential oils, including Thieves, Cinnamon Bark, Oregano, ImmuPower, ...