Holistic methods, when used in part with adequate daily care and professional maintenance, help keep a smile clean and healthy. Although no substitute for the expertise of a dentist, these holistic tips and tricks are sure to help you maintain your oral health between visits.
Here are some methods that will help you keep your smile bright and healthy:
Oil Pulling
This ancient ayurvedic technique is great for keeping the mouth hydrated and healthy. It involves swishing coconut oil in the mouth for an extended period of time, at a minimum of ten minutes per day.
The oil molecules hydrate plaque and tartar deposits, making them grow slower and break down faster. It keeps the soft tissues in your mouth hydrated. Those with dry, off-color tongues would benefit from scraping and oil pulling.
Baking Soda
Many over the counter whitening agents include this substance in their products. Baking soda gently whitens teeth over time. It removes biofilm and surface stains as the granules gently smooth the surface of teeth.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Another common ingredient in teeth whitening products, hydrogen peroxide works wonders to whiten teeth when used in conjunction with baking soda.
As a standalone product, hydrogen peroxide is an effective mouthwash. It is often recommended to post oral surgery because it kills the bacteria present in our mouth. It’s best to keep bacteria at a controlled minimum when healing after oral surgery.
Activated Charcoal
Charcoal is often thought of as a barbecue necessity, but it can also whiten teeth. Activated charcoal is an oxygenated form of carbon. Its texture helps to polish stains off teeth and keep them smooth and unfit for plaque and tartar to attach. This product is often found in water purification systems and fish tank filters, or in edible tablets found in the supplements aisle of the drug store.
Kaolin Clay
Kaolinite is a clay mineral sold in powdered form. Most people use it as a gentle face mask, but it can also be used to whiten teeth in a similar fashion to activated charcoal. The finely granulated particles get deep in between teeth to polish off biofilm and surface stains.
Fruits and Vegetables
Perhaps the most helpful holistic dental hygiene aid is a proper diet. Along with a high fluid intake, eating lots of fruits and vegetables will keep your body healthy and in good shape to protect your teeth. While a hydrated body keeps the teeth protected with adequate salivation, a body with good nutrition will re-mineralize enamel faster.
Professional Prevention
No one of these tips could substitute the intervention of a dental professional. Despite providing benefits, not one of them outweighs the input and cleaning abilities of a dentist. Be sure to attend your bi-yearly dental appointments for a cleaning and a check-up.