May is National Dental Care Month, so I thought it would be appropriate to share some of the ways you can incorporate natural solutions and modalities into your oral hygiene routine. Our mouths are not just gateways to nourishment; they are also windows to our health. The holistic approach to dental care emphasizes the interconnectedness of oral health with the health of our entire body and overall well-being.
Holistic dental care recognizes that oral health is more than just brushing and flossing; it encompasses lifestyle factors, nutrition, and natural remedies. And guess what? The tips below also classify as forms of self-care. Have you ever thought of brushing your teeth as a form of self-care? If you haven’t, you totally should!
HOLISTIC ORAL HEALTH CARE TIPS
Mindful Nutrition: What we eat directly impacts our oral health. A diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins provides essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums. Incorporate foods high in calcium, such as leafy greens and dairy products, to support strong teeth.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Opt for water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and promote oral health. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces (example: 120lbs = 60oz). If you struggle to drink enough water, then it’s important to ensure that the water you are drinking is actually being absorbed and used by the body. You may want to consider using electrolytes. My household uses the
doTERRA MetaPWR Recharge Electrolyte Mix. In addition to the balanced blend of electrolytes it includes potassium, sodium, magnesium and baobab extract.
Proper Oral Hygiene: Brushing, flossing and using a natural mouthwash are fundamental for maintaining oral hygiene. Use fluoride-free toothpaste and an
electric toothbrush to gently clean your teeth and gums twice a day. Electric toothbrushes offer several advantages that make them a preferred choice – including efficiency, consistency, gentleness, and built in timers. Commercial mouthwashes often contain alcohol and artificial ingredients that can be harsh on your oral microbiome. Instead, opt for a natural mouthwash made with essential oils. You can easily make your own by combining a few drops of essential oils with 4-6oz of water (oil suggestions below) or purchase a
ready-made option from a trusted source.
And don't forget to floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth.
Oil Pulling: An ancient Ayurvedic practice, oil pulling involves swishing oil in your mouth to remove toxins and bacteria. Coconut oil is commonly used for oil pulling due to its antimicrobial properties. Begin by taking 1-2 tsp of oil into your mouth, swish the oil vigorously for 15-20 minutes. Do not swallow. Spit out the oil into a trash can or tissue once finished to avoid clogging the sink. After, rise mouth with warm water or natural mouthwash. For best results, practice oil pulling daily in the morning before eating or drinking anything. Additionally, you may consider adding a drop or two of
essential oil to the coconut oil to enhance the benefits. Peppermint, Spearmint and Cinnamon essential oils are great for refreshing the mouth. Clove is widely used to help alleviate discomforts in the mouth and as well as an antiseptic. Myrrh has compounds like sesquiterpenes and terpenoids that exhibit strong antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. On Guard supports the immune system, and Wintergreen can be used to help brighten and whiten teeth.
Tongue Scrapping: There are various styles of
tongue scraping tools. Whichever you choose, this is a simple oral hygiene practice that gently remove bacteria, food debris, dead cells, and other residue from the surface of the tongue. It helps prevent bad breath, improves taste perception, prevents discoloration of the tongue and supports digestive health.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to oral health issues such as teeth grinding and gum disease. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to support both your oral health and overall well-being.
By embracing a holistic approach to dental care and incorporating natural solution products and modalities into your routine, you can support your oral health naturally. Remember, much like self-care, holistic dental care is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It's imperative to listen to your body and find what works best for you.
Happy National Dental Care Month!
xoDanette