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Combat Gum
Developed by the Army Institute of Surgical Research, Combat Gum is an anti-cavity gum designed to help maintain dental health in high-risk soldiers who have limited access to water. The peppermint flavored, sugar-free gum contains a synthetic sequence of anti-microbial peptides which mimic defensins (the bacteria-killing molecules naturally found in saliva. Though this gum is not a substitute for brushing, when chewed for twenty minutes three times a day it can prevent pathogens from colonizing the mouth. Combat gum is predicted to save the military a hundred million dollars annually. Aside from battle, dental emergencies account for 10 per cent of all injuries that cause soldiers to be evacuated from the battlefield. In the future, the gum is expected to be mass produced and sold to civilians as a prescription or over the counter.