Can seaweed toothpaste clean teeth? A team of UK scientists have said adding enzymes from seaweed microbes to toothpaste and mouthwash could provide better protection against tooth decay. Researchers at Newcastle University had been studying Bacillus licheniformis to see if it could clean ships' hulls, but the scientists now believe it could protect the areas between teeth where plaque can gather despite brushing. Dr Nick Jakubovics, of the university's school of dental sciences spoke to John Humphrys about the finding. Get in touch with Today via email , Twitter or Facebook or text us on 84844.