Neem is a popular tree in the Middle East and Asia for use in oral health care. As neem products become available in the United States, many dental patients wonder if it is actually effective at preventing bacterial growth and for use in curing gum disease.

Products from the neem tree are traditionally used in its indigenous country of India for oral hygiene. Now its observed anti-inflammatory properties are being touted for pain treatment, including that caused by TMJ syndrome. What is indicated by the scientific literature and have any reputable human studies been performed?