Heal Thyself

It's good for more than just drizzling as a sauce during Thanksgiving feasts: Cranberry juice combats the cavity-causing bacteria Streptococcus mutans. It also prevents gum disease and plaque by inhibiting enzymes which form the gunk that can coat our teeth.

But don't chug a whole carton. Cranberry juices sold in grocery stores usually have a lot of added sugar, so opt for a sugar-free version.

In Other News:

Say Cheese with Vitamin C:
Brush, floss, and sip some OJ if you aim to keep those pearly whites. Vitamin C has been found to prevent gum disease, thanks to its ability to enable bone and connective tissue growth.

Rx-Cranberry Cocktail:
The same cranberry chemicals that keep plaque-causing bacteria from clinging to teeth also ward off bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections.

Adios, Aquafresh:
Aloe vera is being touted as an alternative to traditional toothpastes, especially for people with sensitive teeth and gums, since it's a less abrasive substance. Researchers found it to be as effective in killing germs in the mouth as leading name brands.