Dentists Swear By These Natural Remedies

Do you have a dental problem that you need to address before you can see your dentist? Or, do you want to improve your overall oral health in ways that your dentist would approve of? Your garden or pantry may hold the key.

Many of today’s medical treatments are based on natural remedies. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) says that about 40 percent of all pharmaceutical produce available today have their roots in traditional knowledge and nature. Sumerians and Egyptians used bark from a specific type of willow tree as a pain reliever and an anti-inflammatory, for example; a chemist synthesized the active compound in that bark in 1897 to create the aspirin that we still use today.

You’ll still need to visit your dentist for regular checkups and to treat any dental problems you may be experiencing, of course, but you may be able to use natural remedies to keep your teeth and gums healthy in between visits and while you wait for an emergency appointment. 

Dentist-approved Natural Remedies for Oral Health

Peppermint tea bags

Peppermint has natural analgesic properties that relieve pain naturally, providing relief until you can get to your dentist’s office. This common mint can kill some types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi to help keep your mouth clean; the pleasant flavor and aroma will help keep your breath fresh. Peppermint is also a natural anti-inflammatory, so it reduces gum swelling and inflammation. Peppermint oil can increase salivation to prevent or address dry mouth. 

To relieve toothache pain, simply steep a bag of peppermint tea in hot water for 5 minutes. Allow the bag to cool slightly before pressing it against the affected tooth for 10 to 15 minutes. Drinking the tea can provide added benefits. 

Saltwater rinse

Canker sores are painful sore spots that can develop on your gums, tongue, roof of your mouth, or inside of your lips. While they go away without treatment in about 2 weeks, rinsing with saltwater can dry out the sore and speed up the healing process. Salt is a natural disinfectant, and effectively promotes healing by reducing swelling.

Mix ½ cup of warm water with a teaspoon of salt and stir until the salt is completely dissolved. Swish the solution around in your mouth for about 30 seconds then spit out. Do not swallow any saltwater.

Be aware: the salt may sting a bit.

Aloe vera rinse

Rinsing with aloe vera is just as effective – or even more effective – as rinsing with commercial mouthwash for removing plaque, according to research. 

Mix a half cup of aloe vera juice into ½ cup of water. Add two tablespoons of salt to promote healing as needed, and a few drops of peppermint essential oils and/or cinnamon oil to combat bad breath as necessary. Mix well. Swish around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Do not swallow. 

Clove

In the old days, people would bite down on cloves to ease their toothaches. Cloves are a fragrant spice that you might add to a meat rub, marinade, or even pumpkin pie, but they also have antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. 

Use clove oil to fight gum disease and other oral infections. Massage clove oil onto your gums every day to keep gum issues at bay. 

You can even use clove oil as a natural toothache remedy. Simply put a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball, and then bite down on the cotton ball for 15 minutes. 

Coconut oil pulling

Oil pulling may reduce some of the harmful bacteria in your mouth. It works by sweeping bacteria away from the surfaces of your teeth, gums, and cheeks; bacteria then dissolve in the oil. 

While any oil will technically work, extra-virgin coconut oil has a pleasant flavor. Coconut oil also contains generous amounts of lauric acid, which is a beneficial fatty acid that has antimicrobial properties. It may also freshen your breath and improve your overall oral health. 

Put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for 20 to 30 minutes. Spit it out, rinse with water, and then brush your teeth as usual.

Oregano oil

You can use oregano oil for oil pulling or to fight unhealthy bacteria in your mouth. Use a couple of drops of oregano oil each day alongside your regular brushing and flossing.

Where can I find more information about natural remedies from a dentist near me?

For more information on natural remedies for better oral health (and for tips on natural dental care), consult with CHS Dental. Our dentist in Charleston and our dentist in Mt. Pleasant agree that some natural dental treatments can safely and effectively. Contact CHS Dental today to learn more.

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