Cinnamon Gum and Mouth Microbes

Summary

Areas of Science

Microbiology

Difficulty

Time Required

Long (2-4 weeks)

Prerequisites

A basic knowledge of how to work with bacteria is needed to complete this science fair project. Consult the Microbiology Techniques and Troubleshooting guide for information on how to conduct microbiology experiments.

Material Availability

Specialty items, like the media to grow bacteria on, can be ordered from online vendors such as Carolina Biological Supply Company.

Cost

Average ($50 - $100)

Safety

Use sterile technique. Read the Microorganisms Safety Guide before starting any experiments. SRC approval may be necessary. Adult supervision is recommended.

Credits

*Note: For this science project you will need to develop your own experimental procedure. Use the information in the summary tab as a starting place. If you would like to discuss your ideas or need help troubleshooting, use the Ask An Expert forum. Our Experts won't do the work for you, but they will make suggestions and offer guidance if you come to them with specific questions.

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Abstract

Did you know that a scientific study has shown that chewing Big Red Gum reduces mouth microbes? (ScienceDaily contributors, 2004) The cinnamon oil in the gum is a natural defense against mouth bacteria that cause tooth decay and bad breath. Conduct an experiment to compare products with cinnamon essence in gum, candy, toothpaste, and mouthwash to see if they can decrease mouth germs. Do a before and after swab of the mouth with a Q-tip. Which treatments work the best? Can you find another useful ingredient in other natural oils or essences? What about peppermint, wintergreen, or spearmint?

Bibliography

ScienceDaily contributors. (2004). Popular Chewing Gum Eliminates Bacteria That Cause Bad Breath. ScienceDaily. Retrieved May 1, 2006, from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/04/040401080031.htm

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Careers

If you like this project, you might enjoy exploring these related careers:

Dental Hygienist

Career Profile

Good oral hygiene protects not only teeth and gums, but the whole body, reducing the risk of infections, heart disease, clogged arteries, and stroke. Dental hygienists help prevent and correct dental problems by taking X-rays, examining teeth and gums, removing plaque, polishing teeth, injecting local anesthetics, and assisting with dental procedures. They also play a key role in educating patients about how and when to brush and floss. Read more

Microbiologist

Career Profile

Microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, algae, and fungi) are the most common life-forms on Earth. They help us digest nutrients; make foods like yogurt, bread, and olives; and create antibiotics. Some microbes also cause diseases. Microbiologists study the growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of microorganisms to promote health, industry, and a basic understanding of cellular functions. Read more

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General citation information is provided here. Be sure to check the formatting, including capitalization, for the method you are using and update your citation, as needed.

MLA Style

Science Buddies Staff. "Cinnamon Gum and Mouth Microbes." Science Buddies, 28 July 2017, https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/MicroBio_p023/microbiology/cinnamon-gum-and-mouth-microbes. Accessed 18 May 2022.

APA Style

Science Buddies Staff. (2017, July 28). Cinnamon Gum and Mouth Microbes. Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/MicroBio_p023/microbiology/cinnamon-gum-and-mouth-microbes

Last edit date: 2017-07-28

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