Using cranberry juice as a mouthwash is not far-fetched. Red berries have an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity that can help ward off gum disease.

Canadian researchers showed that unique cranberry chemicals prevented destructive bacteria from sticking to the teeth below the gum line. If the germs don’t stick, they can’t cause the infection that inflames gums and attacks bone and ligaments, eventually causing loss of teeth. Researchers say eating cranberries may be one more way—in addition to brushing, flossing and cleaning—to curb gum disease. prpgingivitis prpcaries

All forms of cranberries work—fresh, dried, canned, and frozen as well as cranberry juice and cranberry juice cocktail.