How we take care of our dental health can be harmful. Ancient methods of maintaining good oral hygiene were natural and effective. Since then, a lot has changed thanks to technology. However, are you concerned about toxic chemicals in the tools you use? Are you looking for a more natural way to keep that wonderful and bright smile? Look no further as we talk about the problem with current tools and the best ways to clean your teeth naturally.
Chemical-free toothpaste
On the market, most toothpaste consists of artificial chemicals and agents to help gently sweep plaque and debris away from the teeth. It includes abrasives, binders, preservatives, humectants, foaming agents, fluoride, flavorings, and sweeteners. Some of these ingredients can be harmful to your health. For example, studies show that fluoride aids in preventing cavities. Cavities are decayed areas of the teeth that form into tiny openings or holes. Recent studies show that too much fluoride can lead to many health problems, including:
•dental fluorosis: occurs in children under the ages of 8. It causes white or brown spots to appear on the teeth.
•Skeletal fluorosis occurs when fluoride forms in the bones. It causes stiffness and pain.
•diabetes
•problems in the immune system
•Cardiovascular disease
•lower fertility
Sweeteners in commercial toothpaste can also cause health problems. For example, saccharin and aspartame can lead to cancer. Saccharine exposure increases the risk of liver and renal impairment. Therefore, it is more beneficial and safer to use chemical-free or herbal toothpaste. They do not contain any artificial ingredients or toxic chemicals. The good news is that they work just as effectively as regular toothpaste. Ingredients include cloves, papaya, menthol, cinnamon, mint, tea tree oil, sage, and eucalyptus extracts.
Bamboo toothbrush
Another way to clean your teeth naturally is to buy a bamboo toothbrush. If you have not heard about bamboo toothbrushes, they originate from a bamboo plant. It is a fast-growing plant that does not require pesticides or other hazardous chemicals to grow. The toothbrush handles come from bamboo, and the bristles are nylon. Unlike regular plastic toothbrushes, bamboo toothbrushes do not contain bisphenol A (BPA). It is a hazardous chemical that can damage the brain and prostate gland. It can also lead to diabetes and heart disease. Bamboo toothbrushes have soft bristles, making them gentle on your teeth and gums. Some bamboo brushes contain activated charcoal. This natural ingredient removes stains from the teeth and whitens them.
Bamboo toothbrushes cater to adults and children, so your whole family can benefit. They are hygienic because they are anti-microbial and anti-bacterial. These natural properties prevent harmful bacteria from growing and spreading on the handle. Bamboo toothbrushes are also an eco-friendly alternative to regular plastic ones. Billions of plastic toothbrushes pollute our landfills and oceans every year. It takes up to 1000 years to decompose and harms marine animals. Bamboo toothbrushes are 100% biodegradable. So when you want to dispose of it, place it in your garden or some compost, and it will naturally decompose within months.
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Rinse your brush and wipe it with a clean towel. If you are going on holiday, travel-size bamboo brushes are also available. They are convenient because they have a detachable head and come in a protective case.
Unwaxed and bamboo floss
Floss is an excellent tool you need daily to clean plaque and food debris between your teeth. There are many different types of floss on the market. Most contain artificial chemicals that can be harmful to your health. For example, waxed floss contains toxic chemicals called PFAS. These can lead to cancer, developmental problems, and liver damage. Unwaxed floss does not contain any artificial chemicals and flavors. It suits people with crowded teeth because it is thinner than waxed versions. Pregnant women may prefer this floss because it does not contain any flavors that can trigger nausea and vomiting.
Bamboo floss is becoming increasingly popular for people who want another natural way to floss. It is coated in organic wax and does not contain toxic chemicals. Waxed coatings include peppermint oil and candelilla wax. It contains activated charcoal to clean and whiten the teeth. It also freshens the breath by trapping unpleasant odors. Like bamboo toothbrushes, bamboo floss is eco-friendly and fully bio-degradable.
Oil pulling
Oil pulling is when you swish oil in your mouth and then spit it out. It is an ancient Indian practice that promotes oral hygiene safely and effectively. Traditionally, people use sesame oil, but you can use other oils. For example, olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. The benefits of oil pulling include:
•It cuts down the bacteria in your mouth: Over 700 bacteria are present in your mouth. Some of them are harmful because they can cause tooth decay. Practicing oil pulling can help reduce the number of these bacteria in your mouth. For example, streptococcus mutants are one of the harmful bacteria-causing plaque and tooth decay. Studies show that oil pulling with coconut oil significantly reduces the number of these bacteria.
•It reduces bad breath: bad breath, or halitosis, is more common than people think. Studies show that it affects 50% of the adult population. It can be caused by eating strong-smelling food, poor oral habits, a dry mouth, odor-causing bacteria on your tongue, or other health conditions. Studies show that oil pulling with sesame oil significantly reduces bad breath.
•It reduces plaque and gingivitis: Gingivitis is a gum disease that leads to inflammation and redness in your gums. Poor oral hygiene and the build-up of plaque cause gingivitis. Oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil reduces the risk of gingivitis.
Oil pulling is an affordable and simple technique you can incorporate into your daily regimen. So, how exactly do you oil pull? Choose either sesame, coconut, or olive oil. Place one tablespoon of oil on your mouth. Swish it around your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. In the meantime, you can continue with your everyday house chores. Spit it into a bin. Avoid spitting it into your sink, as it can clog it up. Rinse your mouth with water before you eat or drink anything. For best results, do this in the morning on an empty stomach. However, there is no strict rule, so do it when it suits you best.