4 Simple Ways to Detox Your Mouth

Whole-body cleanses are a popular way for people to boost their overall health. Did you know that you can do the same thing for your mouth? As a holistic dentist in Southlake, Dr. Thomas is ready to provide ideas on things you can do to reduce the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth and enjoy a healthier smile. Here are some simple things you can do to detox your oral cavity:

Try Oil Pulling

Oil pulling involves swishing an oil, usually coconut oil, around the mouth for 15 – 20 minutes. Research has shown that oil pulling can reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth, lower the risk of gingivitis, reduce bad breath, and more.

Oil pulling is easy. Most people use about one tablespoon of oil. Be sure to swish it gently; otherwise, your facial muscles might get tired. When you finish swishing, spit out the oil into a paper towel and toss it in the trash (spitting it into the sink might cause plumbing problems).

Drink Green Tea

Regular consumption of green tea has been shown to have numerous benefits for oral health. For example, it can lower the acidity of saliva, reduce the risk of cavities, fight harmful inflammation, and play a role in combatting gum disease.

To benefit from green tea, try to consume at least a few cups each day. It is best if the tea is unsweetened. It is fine to drink it either hot or iced — the health benefits are the same either way.

Consume Probiotics

Probiotics can do wonders for gut health, but they can also help to balance out your oral microbiome. By promoting the growth of helpful bacteria, probiotics leave less room for harmful bacteria.

You can get your probiotics through fermented foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. It is also possible to buy probiotics in supplement form. (Not all supplements offer the same level of quality, so be sure to do some thorough research before you make any purchases.)

Use a Tongue Scraper

Sadly, many people forget to clean their tongue during their daily oral hygiene routine, which can lead to an accumulation of bacteria, as well as bad breath and other issues. A tongue scraper offers an effective way to clean off layers of bacteria and food particles, leaving you with a cleaner and fresher mouth.

Tongue scrapers are extremely affordable and are available at most stores that sell oral hygiene supplies. To use one, place it at the back of your tongue and glide it forward. Repeat several times to make sure you clean the entire the tongue’s entire surface.

Detoxing your mouth doesn’t take a lot of time and effort. Try the suggestions in this article to enjoy a fresher, healthier smile.

Meet Dr. Thomas

Dr. Preetha Thomas is an experienced dentist in Southlake who focuses on providing care that benefits her patients’ whole-body wellness. She offers a range of services, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures. To learn more about her and how she may be able to serve you, contact Enclave Dental at 817-912-1218.