Unlock the Secrets to Natural Oral Care with These 6 Tips
Caring for your teeth and gums is a crucial part of staying healthy. It can help prevent bad breath, gingivitis, and even tooth loss. If you’re into using natural products, you might shy away from typical mouthwashes and toothpaste because they often have additives or alcohol. No worries, though! If you’ve recently embraced a more natural lifestyle, here are some easy ways to take care of your oral health naturally.
### 1. Tongue Scraping
Your mouth can be a breeding ground for bad bacteria, much of which hangs out on your tongue. Scraping your tongue daily can help remove these bacteria without the need for harsh, alcohol-based mouth rinses that might irritate sensitive areas. Plus, it helps maintain a balance between good and bad bacteria in your mouth, which can prevent tooth decay.
To do it right, scrape your tongue gently from the back to the front until it feels clean. Don’t press too hard—it can damage your taste buds and cause sores. It might take a bit of practice, so be gentle and careful.
### 2. Modify Your Diet
Changing what you eat can naturally balance the pH levels in your mouth. Normally, our bodies do best when there’s a good balance of acid and alkaline. Eating too much sugar can throw this balance off and lead to problems like swollen taste buds and canker sores.
To keep things balanced, consider eating more protein-rich beans like black beans, kidney beans, and baked beans. Fresh greens and non-acidic fruits also help.
### 3. Ditch Soda for Green Tea
If soda is your go-to drink, think about swapping it for green tea. Green tea is loaded with antioxidants that fight free radicals and bacteria, slowing the progression of gum disease and promoting healthy teeth.
By replacing soda with green tea, you also cut down on sugar intake. You could brew your own tea to avoid added sugars and sweeten it with a little bit of organic honey or a plant-based sweetener if you need that sweet fix.
### 4. Use an Oiled Floss
Flossing is essential for good oral health as it cleans where your toothbrush can’t reach. To give your flossing routine a natural boost, use floss coated with tea tree oil. This oil has natural disinfecting properties and kills bacteria, offering a gentler alternative to alcohol-based rinses. You can find this type of floss at holistic stores or online.
### 5. Choose Your Dentist Wisely
Seeing a dentist regularly is still important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Look for a dentist who uses minimally invasive techniques and treatments. This approach not only aligns with a more natural lifestyle, but it typically means quicker recovery times if you need any procedures. It’s best to find a dentist before you have any urgent dental issues so that you can make a relaxed, informed choice.
### 6. Make Your Own Toothpaste
Commercial toothpaste often has dyes and additives you might prefer to avoid. Making your own toothpaste is simple. Mix equal parts baking soda and coconut oil, then add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Some oils offer additional health benefits, so choose one that supports your oral health.
You don’t need harsh chemicals to maintain a bright, healthy smile. With these natural methods, you can take care of your teeth and gums in a gentle, effective way that fits your holistic lifestyle.
