Holistic dentists understand the deep connection between oral health and the wellness of the rest of the body. Taking the advice of a holistic dentist will not only improve your teeth and gums, but you might also find that it minimizes other unwanted physical and emotional problems. The following holistic dental tips are meant to improve your oral health as much as possible, and with it the rest of your body. Brushing at least twice a day for two minutes and daily flossing, optimally after every time you eat, along with these other actions.
Clean Your Tongue
Unfortunately, the tongue is often ignored compared to the teeth and gums, but it is equally as important. In fact, the tongue holds a great deal of the bacteria that fails to leave your mouth after you brush and floss, so neglecting to clean your tongue can undermine your oral hygiene routine. The good news is that there’s a very simple fix to this problem. Simply buy a U shaped wire that has rubber grips on either side to hold. You can use it each morning and night to scrape the surface of your tongue. As you do, all of that lingering bacteria will be zapped away, leaving your mouth fresher than ever before.
Try Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is another great strategy that few people know outside of the holistic wellness sector. It’s a very simple process with major benefits. Simply rinse a tablespoon of organic, unrefined coconut oil around in your mouth for about 15 minutes and then spit it out. Coconut oil has a long list of important properties, including as an antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. Your gums and teeth will become coated with coconut oil as you pull, and it suctions out any bacterial microbes hiding away in your mouth. Regular oil pulling will deliver whiter, cleaner teeth and can even diminish inflammation and minimize sinus congestion.
Use Alternative Mouthwash
Mouthwash is an important component of your oral hygiene, but the conventional mouthwash brands found at the grocery store often contain damaging or toxic ingredients that you don’t want to put into your system. Opt for a healthier and safer alternative by making your own mouthwash with a salt water rinse. All you need to do is combine warm water with Himalayan sea salt and a few drops of an essential oil with oral health benefits, like Clove or Peppermint. The salt water will help balance the pH level in your mouth to block bacteria, and the essential oil will provide extra protection and a nice taste.
By adding these three techniques to your daily oral habits, you will be able to enjoy strong, healthy teeth and gums for the rest of your life.