Cinnamon Gum and Mouth Microbes *
| 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. |
*Note: This is an abbreviated Project Idea, without notes to start your background research, a specific list of materials, or a procedure for how to do the experiment. You can identify abbreviated Project Ideas by the asterisk at the end of the title. If you want a Project Idea with full instructions, please pick one without an asterisk.
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?Cite This Page
MLA Style
Science Buddies Staff.
"Cinnamon Gum and Mouth Microbes"
Science Buddies.
Science Buddies, 28 July 2017.
Web. 20 Sep. 2017
<https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/MicroBio_p023/microbiology/cinnamon-gum-and-mouth-microbes>
APA Style
Science Buddies Staff.
(2017, July 28).
Cinnamon Gum and Mouth Microbes.
Retrieved September 20, 2017
from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/MicroBio_p023/microbiology/cinnamon-gum-and-mouth-microbes
Share your story with Science Buddies!
I Did This Project!
Please log in and let us know how things went.
Last edit date: 2017-07-28
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.htmNews Feed on This Topic
Note: A computerized matching algorithm suggests the above articles. It's not as smart as you are, and it may occasionally give humorous, ridiculous, or even annoying results! Learn more about the News Feed
Share your story with Science Buddies!
I Did This Project!
Please log in and let us know how things went.
Ask an Expert
The Ask an Expert Forum is intended to be a place where students can go to find answers to science questions that they have been unable to find using other resources. If you have specific questions about your science fair project or science fair, our team of volunteer scientists can help. Our Experts won't do the work for you, but they will make suggestions, offer guidance, and help you troubleshoot.Ask an Expert
Related Links
If you like this project, you might enjoy exploring these related careers:
Dental Hygienist
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
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 moreNews Feed on This Topic
Note: A computerized matching algorithm suggests the above articles. It's not as smart as you are, and it may occasionally give humorous, ridiculous, or even annoying results! Learn more about the News Feed
Looking for more science fun?
Try one of our science activities for quick, anytime science explorations. The perfect thing to liven up a rainy day, school vacation, or moment of boredom.
Find an Activity