Hi, it's Mia Armonde here to talk to you about family dentistry. As my small family grew into a large one, I found myself at the dental office on a regular basis. Every six months, the kids would go into the dentist for a cleaning or repairs to their teeth. During that time, I took an interest in the various ways the dental tools were evolving. Tools used in the dental industry have grown in leaps and bounds in the last few decades. For example, my kids went from hearing the dental drill to wearing headphones that completely canceled out the sound. Each time we go back into the dentist, I take a close look at the improvements that have arisen since the last visit. The results are astounding. I will cover my findings on this site, so you can also enjoy the improvements to dental tools and techniques.
Natural substances are becoming popular among people who want to limit their exposure to chemicals and their undesirable side effects. Even though they may not be considered conventional, natural health practices can help improve your oral health. Here are two ways to naturally promote healthy teeth and gums:
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling requires little other than time and a bit of healthy, edible oil. Oils, such as olive oil, coconut oil or sesame oil, are often used in this ancient Ayurvedic practice.
To oil pull, you simply place about a tablespoon of oil in your mouth and move it around your mouth for a period, usually about 20 minutes or so. As the oil comes in contact with the oral bacteria, it traps the microbes, and they are discarded when the oil is released from the mouth.
Studies show that oil pulling is as effective as chlorhexidine mouth rinse at improving the freshness of your breath, aiding gum health and preventing an overgrowth of decay-causing oral bacteria.
Some oils, such as coconut oil, possess additional qualities that benefit your oral health. Coconut oil is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. As the oil is moved about the oral cavity, harmful bacteria and viruses are killed and inflammation is soothed. Since gum disease is caused by inflammation, selecting an oil with anti-inflammatory properties can be especially helpful.
As you practice oil pulling, be sure to avoid aspirating the oil. It can be damaging to lung tissue if inhaled. In addition, never swallow the used oil; it contains large numbers of bacteria and other contaminants.
Turmeric Mouthwash
For Indian dishes, turmeric is a popular spice. The savory powder, which is bright yellow in color, can also be used as a part of your dental hygiene regimen.
Turmeric contains an anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin that offers multiple health benefits. Studies show that mouthwash made from combining turmeric and water is as effective at reducing plaque, inflammation and oral bacteria numbers as chlorhexidine mouthwash. However, unlike chlorhexidine, turmeric is unlikely to cause negative side effects, such as tongue staining, tooth discoloration, dry mouth, tartar development, oral irritation and a decline in your ability to taste.
Natural oral healthcare practices can serve as effective adjuncts to your current dental regimen. However, you should never neglect brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist. If you have not had a dental appointment within the past six months, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area, like one from Arbor Dental Care Ltd, as soon as possible.
Share5 January 2016
