Dental health is crucial to one’s overall well-being. Several infections of the mouth can cause other problems within the body. Heart disease, stroke, dementia, and respiratory problems have all been linked to poor dental health. To help keep the body healthy, regular visits to the dentist is recommended. What about between visits? What is the best way to keep your mouth healthy?
Coconut oil toothpaste might be the next step in dental health. Due to sensitivity, over the counter toothpaste and rinses are just too irritating. Many will be happy that a coconut oil alternative is being researched.
A recent study done at the Athlone Institute analyzed the effects of different oils on oral health and found that coconut oil is undoubtedly the best, as its powerful natural antibacterial properties inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth.
Tooth decay is caused by streptococcus and S. Mutans, which feed on sugar and reduce the pH value in the mouth, causing acidity which demineralizes teeth.
According to Dr. Damien Brady, the lead researcher at the Athlone Institute of Technology:
“Incorporating enzyme-modified coconut oil into dental hygiene products would be an attractive alternative to chemical additives, particularly as it works at relatively low concentrations. Also, with increasing antibiotic resistance, it is important that we turn our attention to new ways to combat microbial infection.”
Commercial kinds of toothpaste are full of harmful chemicals, like sodium lauryl sulfate, fluoride, triclosan, as well as artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, which have a detrimental effect on health.
For instance, sodium lauryl sulfate influences the taste buds and leads to a bitter taste, while Triclosan affects the endocrine glands. Hence, you should always try to use some natural alternative.
We recommend the following natural toothpaste:
Ingredients:
– ½ cup coconut oil
– 15-30 drops essential oil (lemon, thieves, peppermint)
– 2-3 tablespoons baking soda
Preparation:
- Melt coconut oil and blend with other ingredients.
- Pour into a glass jar and let cool.
- Use as you would use normal tooth paste.
source ; http://hfstips.com