The present disclosure relates to methods, compositions and apparatus for monitoring and improving oral health by utilizing information about nitric oxide levels in an individuals oral cavity. In an embodiment, the disclosure provides methods and apparatus for monitoring nitric oxide metabolites in saliva this information may be utilized as it relates to improving oral health, i.e. monitoring and improving oral hygiene and increasing the consumption of nitric oxide-potent foods. In an embodiment, methods for improving oral health in a subject comprising, use of an oral cleanser by an individual, wherein the oral cleanser comprises a potassium nitrate source and use of a saliva test strip for measuring nitrite and nitrogen oxides in the oral cavity of the individual are provided. In an embodiment, a novel nitrate-rich gum composition is provided.
