hmmm...I've never heard of licorice having any anti-bacterial properties. I guess since cavities are caused by bacteria and the presence of sugar, then if this lollipop really does reduce the bacterial growth then it could work, although the studies seem to be done in a petri dish not in the oral cavity. There are combinations of bacteria that cause cavities and if this licorice only kills one of the many bacterial types than it's not really that useful. Just brush, floss and watch your diet for sticky sugars, acidity and carbonation and you can reduce your risk of cavities the old fashion way.

but sticky sugars are soo... sticky and sugary!

but what you're saying does make sense. the only example the guy gave in the news report was in a petri dish so thus my wonder. thanks for the insight... i better go floss.

I thought chewing gum was good for teeth by producing more saliva in the mouth. (gum=sticky sugar?)

This is true...gum doesn't actually stick to your teeth as much, I was thinking gummy bears, raisins things around those lines. Gum is good because it does stimulate saliva which helps you fight cavities but make sure you're chewing something sugar-free or better yet something with xyilotol...