Home remedies for oral hygiene

Whiten teeth with sage and Indian basil? Coffee beans against bad breath? Rinse with salt water for gingivitis?

As in many other areas, oral hygiene also knows numerous home remedies. They are intended to alleviate unpleasant symptoms in the mouth or, ideally, to eliminate them altogether. Alleviate is certainly possible, but to eliminate the causes, even the best home remedy can not replace a visit to the dentist. In principle, however, home remedies can usefully supplement oral hygiene.

Home remedies for oral hygiene: bad breath

There is a herb against bad breath. The chlorophyll in parsley, mint, dill, cloves, chamomile or fennel seeds neutralizes the odor from the mouth after an odor-intensive meal, for example with onions or garlic. In doing so, the herbs can easily be chewed instead of dental gum.

In addition, chewing coffee beans promises better breath. Gingerol, the pungent in ginger, is said to activate a salivary enzyme that breaks down foul-smelling sulfur compounds in the mouth.

Home remedies for oral hygiene: gum inflammation

Sage can help with gum inflammation. The rosmarinic acid in sage has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, sage contains thujone, which can reduce the perception of pain. Caution is advised, however. In high doses, thujone is toxic. Rosemary leaves, chamomile, lemon balm or lavender are also said to have anti-inflammatory properties. Prepare an herbal tea and rinse your mouth with it.

Salt water is also considered an effective home remedy for gingivitis. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water. You can use the solution as a mouthwash. Alternatively, dip your toothbrush in the salt water and massage the affected area. The massage also stimulates blood circulation, which can speed up healing.

Apple cider vinegar is a real all-rounder among home remedies and is also recommended to alleviate gum problems. Apple cider vinegar is said to stimulate salivation, inhibit inflammation and have an antibacterial effect. Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and gargle with this mixture half an hour before brushing your teeth.

Home remedies for oral hygiene: plaque.

Soda or activated charcoal clean the teeth and additionally whiten them. To do this, simply brush your teeth with baking soda or activated charcoal. However, caution is advised, because too frequent use can attack the tooth enamel. Therefore, in the Demirdental range you will find brush heads with activated charcoal, so you do not have to worry about the correct dosage.

The pulp of tomatoes and strawberries enriched with vitamin C can also help remove tartar. To do this, rub the teeth with the respective pulp and let it soak in. Afterwards, rinse your mouth thoroughly.

Sesame seeds are also a proven home remedy for removing plaque. Chew a spoonful of sesame seeds without swallowing them and then brush your teeth with a dry toothbrush. Rinse your mouth thoroughly afterwards. Here again, it is recommended to use in moderation, because the abrasion causes the enamel to suffer.

Home remedies for oral hygiene: teeth whitening (bleeching)

Many home remedies for whitening teeth (such as baking soda, activated charcoal or baking soda) are controversial because they are aggressive and can attack tooth enamel. Much gentler on the teeth are natural foods, which are also said to whiten teeth.

Eating non-dried sage after meals can promote the desired whitening of the teeth due to both the ingredients and the texture of the leaves. Indian basil is considered a home remedy for gum disease or gingivitis in natural medicine and can also be used to whiten teeth. It is advised to chew two to three leaves for a few minutes every day.

No matter which home remedy you use: Please keep in mind that home remedies also have side effects. It is best to consult your dentist about regular, safe use.