Best 10 Natural Tips For Advanced Dental Care At Home

In the UK, it's essential to keep your smile healthy. But many dental products claim to make your teeth whiter and more nutritious, so it's expected to wonder if there are better, more natural ways to do it. There are, which is good news!

This blog post discusses the Best 10 Natural Tips For Advanced Dental Care At Home while using fewer harsh chemicals.

Brushing Basics: The Foundation of a Healthy Smile

Let's begin with the most important things. The best way to take care of your teeth is to brush them twice daily for two minutes each time. But skill is essential! At a 45-degree angle, gently clean the outside of your teeth with a toothbrush with soft bristles. This gets rid of plaque and food bits well without hurting your gums.

In the UK, many dentists suggest fluoride toothpaste because it helps prevent cavities. However, some people would rather have a choice without fluoride. Even though these can get rid of plaque well, the NHS [1] says you should talk to your dentist before moving, especially if you get cavities often.

Beyond the Brush: Keeping it Clean Between Teeth

When you brush your teeth, you don't get all the places between your teeth where plaque likes to hide. This is where cleaning between your teeth comes in. Flossing has been the standard method for a long time. But some people need help because it's complex or inconvenient for them. Luckily, there are other options:

• Interdental Brushes: These tiny brushes come in different sizes to fit between teeth, effectively removing plaque and debris.

• Water Flossers: These devices use water to clean between teeth. They can be a good option for people with dexterity issues or gum sensitivity. Water flossers [2] are readily available in the UK and safe for most users.

The Power of Salt: A Natural Antiseptic Rinse

Salt isn't just for putting on food! An easy rinse with salt water can improve your oral hygiene routine. Salt is naturally antibacterial, killing bacteria in your mouth and reducing swelling. How to make a safe saltwater rinse and works:

• Dissolve ½ teaspoon of table salt in a cup of warm water.

• Swish thoroughly for 30 seconds, then spit.

• Do not swallow the rinse.

Nature's Whitening Agents: A Brighter Smile the Safe Way

Even though Hollywood smiles might make you want to use harsh teeth-whitening products, there are gentler ways to get whiter teeth that are safe for your teeth. You can choose between these two options:

• Baking Soda: This gentle abrasive can remove surface stains from teeth. However, use it sparingly, as overuse can damage enamel. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste, and brush your teeth for a minute once or twice a week.

• Strawberries: The malic acid in strawberries may help whiten teeth. However, the effects are mild. Mash a few strawberries, brush your teeth with the mixture for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Remember, this is not a substitute for professional whitening if you desire a dramatic change.

Oil Pulling: An Ancient Technique with Modern Questions

An ancient Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling involves swishing oil in your mouth to remove toxins. Coconut oil is a popular choice. While some claim it improves oral health and reduces bad breath, limited scientific evidence supports it. If you're curious about oil pulling, consult your dentist before trying it, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Dietary Choices for Healthy Teeth: What You Eat Matters

What you put on your plate can significantly impact your oral health. Here's how your diet can contribute to a healthy smile:

• Calcium-Rich Foods: Calcium is essential for strong teeth and bones. Include dairy products, leafy greens, and tofu in your diet for a calcium boost.

• Limit Sugary Drinks: Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, leading to cavities. Reduce your intake of sugary drinks like soda and fruit juices. Opt for water or unsweetened green tea instead. 

Harnessing the Power of Herbs: Nature's Little Helpers

Certain herbs have potential benefits for oral health:

• Green Tea: This antioxidant-rich beverage may help fight bacteria and freshen your breath.  

• Cloves: Cloves have natural pain-relieving properties and may be helpful for temporary toothaches. However, cloves should never be used as a substitute for professional dental care. 

Consider a qualified herbalist or dentist before using herbs extensively for oral health concerns. 

Don't Forget Your Tongue!

Your tongue can harbor bacteria that contribute to bad breath. Brushing your tongue gently with your toothbrush or using a tongue scraper can help remove bacteria and freshen your breath. 

Lifestyle Habits for a Healthy Smile: Beyond Brushing

Oral health goes beyond just what you do in the bathroom. Here's how your lifestyle choices can impact your smile:

• Stress Management: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to gum disease—practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to manage stress.

• Smoking Cessation: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your oral health. Resources to help you quit smoking are available from the NHS [4].

Regular Dental Checkups Remain Crucial

While natural dental care practices can be beneficial, they shouldn't replace regular dental checkups with an NHS dentist or hygienist. Professional cleanings remove plaque and calculus buildup that brushing and flossing alone can't reach. Early detection of dental problems is crucial for preventing more serious issues.

Conclusion

Achieving a healthy smile is a combination of natural practices and professional care. By incorporating these natural dental care tips into your routine and scheduling regular dental checkups, you can keep your smile bright, healthy, and chemical-free.

Keep in Mind that

• Consult your dentist before significantly changing your oral hygiene routine, especially if you have any dental concerns.

• Natural remedies may not be as effective as professional treatments for specific conditions.

• A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and stress management contributes significantly to oral health.

FAQs

Q. Are natural dental care practices as effective as traditional methods?

A: Natural dental care practices can be a beneficial addition to your oral hygiene routine. Still, they may not be as effective as traditional methods for everyone. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing or using interdental brushes remain essential for removing plaque and preventing cavities. However, natural methods like saltwater rinses and tongue scraping can complement your routine and promote oral health.

Q. Is fluoride toothpaste safe to use in the UK?

A: The NHS recommends fluoride toothpaste for most people in the UK as it helps prevent cavities. However, some people prefer a fluoride-free option. If you're considering switching, consult your dentist to discuss the best action for your needs.

Q. What are some alternatives to flossing?

A: If you find flossing difficult, there are effective alternatives:

• Interdental brushes: These come in various sizes to fit between teeth and effectively remove plaque.

• Water flossers: These devices use water to clean between teeth. They can be a good option for people with dexterity issues or gum sensitivity. Water flossers are readily available in the UK.

Q. Can natural methods whiten my teeth?

A: Natural whitening agents like baking soda and strawberries can gently remove surface stains. However, the effects are mild and not a substitute for professional whitening if you desire a dramatic change. Remember, overuse of some natural whiteners can damage tooth enamel, so consult your dentist before incorporating them into your routine.

Q. Is oil pulling safe and effective?

A: There is limited scientific evidence to support the claims of improved oral health and reduced bad breath associated with oil pulling. If you're curious about trying it, consult your dentist first, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Q. How often should I see an NHS dentist?

A: The NHS recommends visiting your dentist at least once a year for a checkup and cleaning. However, depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

Q. What signs might make me need to see a dentist urgently?

A: See a dentist right away if you experience any of the following:

• Severe toothache

• Bleeding gums

• Swollen gums

• Loose teeth

• A chipped or broken tooth

Reference

• [1] NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fluoride/

• [2] Water flossers https://www.waterpik.co.uk/

• [3] Colgate https://www.colgate.com/en-gb/oral-health/teeth-whitening/what-is-oil-pulling-what-you-need-to-know

• NHS https://www.nhs.uk/smokefree