Coconut oil is a natural oil that has been used for centuries for a variety of health and beauty purposes. Recently, it has gained popularity as a natural alternative to oral hygiene. Coconut oil is believed to have several potential benefits for teeth, including reducing plaque, improving gum health, and whitening teeth.
There are several ways to use coconut oil for teeth, including oil pulling, using it as toothpaste, using it as a mouthwash, and using it as a teeth whitener.
n this article, you will learn different ways of using coconut oil for teeth.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Teeth
Oil Pulling With Coconut Oil
Oil pulling is a traditional practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth for a period of time and then spitting it out. Coconut oil is often used for oil pulling because it is solid at room temperature and has a pleasant taste. Here are a few ways to use coconut oil for oil pulling:
- Simply take a spoonful of coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Spit the oil out when you’re finished.
- Mix coconut oil with a few drops of essential oil, such as peppermint or tea tree oil, for added flavor.
- Try oil pulling with warm coconut oil for a more pleasant experience. Simply heat a spoonful of coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds until it becomes liquid, and then swish it around in your mouth.
- You can also mix coconut oil with a little turmeric or charcoal powder to create a more powerful oil-pulling blend.
Using Coconut Oil As A Natural Toothpaste
Coconut oil can be used as a natural toothpaste in a few different ways:
- Simple coconut oil toothpaste: Mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda to create a simple homemade toothpaste. You can add a few drops of essential oil for flavor if desired.
- Coconut oil and clay toothpaste: Mix coconut oil with bentonite clay and a little water to create toothpaste with a slightly thicker consistency. This can be flavored with essential oils if desired.
- Coconut oil and herb toothpaste: Mix coconut oil with a little dried herb powder, such as neem or parsley, to create a toothpaste with added benefits. You can also add a few drops of essential oil for flavor.
To use coconut oil as toothpaste, simply apply a small amount to your toothbrush and brush as usual.
It is also important to speak with a dental professional before making any changes to your oral hygiene routine.
Using Coconut Oil As A Natural Mouthwash
Coconut oil can be used as a natural mouthwash in a few different ways:
- Simple coconut oil mouthwash: Mix a spoonful of coconut oil with a cup of water and swish the mixture around in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out.
- Coconut oil and essential oil mouthwash: Mix a spoonful of coconut oil with a cup of water and a few drops of essential oil, such as peppermint or tea tree oil, for added flavor. Swish the mixture around in your mouth before spitting it out.
- Coconut oil and herb mouthwash: Mix a spoonful of coconut oil with a cup of water and a teaspoon of dried herbs, such as echinacea or chamomile, to create a mouthwash with added benefits. Swish the mixture around in your mouth before spitting it out.
To use coconut oil as a mouthwash, simply swish the mixture around in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out.
Using Coconut Oil for Teeth Whitening
Coconut oil may have some potential for whitening teeth when used regularly. Here are a few ways to use coconut oil as a teeth whitener:
- Rub coconut oil onto your teeth: Simply rub a small amount of coconut oil onto your teeth using a clean finger or a soft toothbrush.
- Make a coconut oil and baking soda paste: Mix coconut oil with a little baking soda to create a paste. Apply the paste to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
- Make a coconut oil and activated charcoal paste: Mix coconut oil with a little activated charcoal to create a paste. Apply the paste to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
Dental Hygiene Tips and Tricks
Here are a few professional dental hygiene tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay.
- Consider using a fluoride rinse to strengthen your teeth and help prevent tooth decay.
- Have regular dental check-ups and cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup and detect any issues early.
- If you have dentures, be sure to clean them daily and soak them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution.
- If you have braces, use a special toothbrush and dental floss threader to clean around the wires and brackets.
- If you have a dry mouth, use a saliva substitute or chew sugar-free gum to help keep your mouth moist
Final Thoughts
It is important to note that while coconut oil may have some potential benefits for oral hygiene, it is not a replacement for brushing and flossing and should be used in conjunction with a regular oral hygiene routine.
It is also important to speak with a dental professional before making any changes to your oral hygiene routine.
