Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial for overall health and well-being. Regular brushing and flossing are fundamental practices to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Using fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and protects against cavities. Flossing daily helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline, areas a toothbrush cannot reach. Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash can further reduce bacteria and freshen breath.
There are several effective home remedies you can use too to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Here are some popular and effective home remedies according to dental surgeon Manish Viramani from Bangalore:
Saltwater rinse
How to use: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit it out.
Benefits: Saltwater can help reduce bacteria, soothe inflamed gums, and promote healing of sores.
Baking soda
How to use: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Use this paste to brush your teeth.
Benefits: Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help remove stains, neutralise acids in the mouth, and kill bacteria.
Oil pulling
How to use: Swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes, then spit it out and rinse your mouth with water.
Benefits: Oil pulling can reduce harmful bacteria, improve gum health, and help whiten teeth.
Hydrogen peroxide
How to use: Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide (3%) and water. Use this mixture as a mouthwash but do not swallow it.
Benefits: Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial properties and can help whiten teeth and treat gingivitis.
Aloe vera gel
How to use: Use aloe vera gel directly from the plant and apply it to your gums. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse with water.
Benefits: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can soothe gums and help heal oral infections.
Apple cider vinegar
How to use: Dilute apple cider vinegar with water (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) and use it as a mouthwash.
Benefits: Apple cider vinegar can help kill bacteria, reduce plaque, and whiten teeth.
Green tea
How to use: Drink unsweetened green tea or use it as a mouthwash.
Benefits: Green tea contains catechins which are natural antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and help control bacterial growth.
Clove
How to use: Chew on a clove or apply clove oil to the affected area using a cotton ball.
Benefits: Clove has analgesic and antibacterial properties that can help relieve tooth pain and fight infections.
Guava leaves
How to use: Chew on fresh guava leaves or boil them in water to make a mouthwash.
Benefits: Guava leaves have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help maintain oral hygiene and treat gum issues.
Turmeric
How to use: Make a paste with turmeric powder and water and apply it to your teeth and gums. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly.
Benefits: Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce plaque and gum inflammation.
These home remedies can complement your regular oral hygiene routine, but they are not a substitute for professional dental care. Regular check-ups with a dentist are crucial for maintaining oral health.
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