Research carried out by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) has revealed that extracts from aloe vera could help to improve oral health and help people avoid trips to the emergency dentist.
The study suggested that aloe vera could have some soothing properties and help teeth and gums stay healthy, although it was stressed that these findings are a matter of debate and people should not undertake alternative oral health therapies without consulting their dentist.
Dr Kenton Ross, a spokesperson for the AGD, said: "Some may not even realise a problem exists when their teeth are in the early stages of dental erosion. Without proper diagnosis by a general dentist, more serious oral health issues could occur."
Elsewhere, the American Dental Association recently noted that anyone planning to have their teeth whitened should have the procedure carried out by a dental health professional in order to ensure all safety precautions are carried out.