Oil pulling has shown to have a powerful cleansing and healing effect, as proven by science:
-- It reduces counts of Streptococcus mutans (which causes tooth decay) in children’s plaque and saliva. Researchers explain, “Oil pulling can be used as an effective preventive adjunct in maintaining and improving oral health.”
-- Oil pulling reduces plaque, improves gum health, and reduces aerobic microorganisms in plaque in adolescent boys with gingivitis induced by plaque
-- It is as effective as mouthwash when it comes to eliminating bad breath and reducing microorganisms that cause it
-- Oil pulling protects oral cavity, thanks to its mechanical cleaning action. Researchers say, “The myth that the effect of oil pulling therapy on oral health was just a placebo effect has been broken and there are clear indications of possible saponification and emulsification process, which enhances its mechanical cleaning action.”
We note that the above studies involved sesame oil, which is traditionally used and recommended.
Avoid fluoridated toothpaste
Fluoride has been associated with decaying teeth, but it has sure received increasing scrutinity lately, and of course, for some good reasons. A study published in the journal Langmuil uncovered that the “beneficial” fluorapatite layer on your teeth is actually six nanometers thick.
To be more precise, you would need about 10,000 such layers to obtain the width of a single strand of human hair. Scientists still debate over the power of this ultra-thin layer when it comes to protecting tooth enamel and providing health benefits, taking into considering that you could easily eliminate it by chewing. Scientists say:
“…it has to be asked whether such narrow… layers really can act as protective layers for the enamel.”
According to a study, toothpastes that are packed with naturally obtained cacao extract theobromine have proven to repair and remineralize exposed dentin (tissue that makes up the bulk below tooth enamel) than fluoride toothpastes.
Fluoride toothpastes are the largest source of fluoride intake in small children and it is also a risk factor for dental fluorosis. This happens because children like to swallow some of the toothpaste they use to brush their teeth.
Moreover, researchers say that it is not uncommon for small children to swallow more fluoride from their toothpaste than they should throughout the entire day from different sources.
Swallowing fluoride, same as drinking fluoridated water, harms health, as fluoride is a toxic chemical that tends to accumulate in tissues, affect enzyme function and causes many health problems, like endocrine or neurological function.
Children are at a high risk for side-effects caused by overexposure. Children should use a fluoride-free toothpaste, but you as an adult as well.
Improve your dental health
Toothpastes based on natural ingredients like baking soda, essential oils, xylitol, and others the like, are much safer and more effective than fluoride toothpaste. Do not expose yourself to fluoride and other harmful chemicals like triclosan and sodium lauryl sulfate. Here are some basic guidelines for improving dental health naturally:
-- Avoid fluoride-containing toothpastes and fluoridated water. Use fluoride-free toothpaste or make your own natural toothpaste. Choose toothpastes from reputable brands.
-- Reduce sugar and grain intake. Your fructose intake should be less than 25 grams per day. Avoid processed foods at any cost.
-- Your diet should include fresh and whole food, fermented vegetables and grass-fed meat. These will give you enough minerals to strengthen your bones and teeth.
-- Maintain proper oral hygiene and get regular mercury-free cleansing. Scrub your teeth with a washcloth before you brush them to remove any built-up biofilm.
Remember, nature provides many solutions to refresh your breath. Chew some fresh parsley, mint cilantro or ginger slices to freshen your breath.
You can also place a cucumber slice on the roof of your oral cavity to remove any odor-causing bacteria. According to Ayurveda, cucumbers also release excess heat in stomach, which is believed to be the primary cause of bad breath.
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