Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

3 Ways To Protect Your Teeth By Lowering Bacterial Counts In Your Mouth

12 January 2016 by Charlotte Beck

Even if your teeth look white and healthy, there may be weak spots in your tooth enamel that can lead to cavities. These compromised areas usually stem from exposure to acid.  

Some of the enamel-dissolving acid in your mouth is due to the foods and drinks you consume. For instance, sodas can be quite damaging. One study soaked slices of tooth enamel in popular soft drinks for 48 hours. At the end of that period, the enamel had lost over five percent of its weight. 

Still, much of the decay-causing acid in your mouth is expelled by oral bacteria that release the corrosive substance as a byproduct of their digestive process. Here are a few ways to help protect your teeth by lowering the bacterial counts in your mouth.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient practice in which you swish edible oil, such as sesame oil or olive oil, around your mouth for several minutes before spitting the contaminated solution out. 

As the oil moves about the oral cavity, it flows into cracks and crevices and traps bacteria that could not be reached by a toothbrush or dental floss. The bacterial population in your mouth is diminished as the bacteria is discarded when the oil is released.

According to a research study, the effectiveness of oil pulling is comparable to that of chlorhexidine mouthwash at killing the oral bacteria, Streptococcus mutans.

Turmeric Mouth Wash

Turmeric, which is a popular spice in Indian cuisine, can also be used to kill oral bacteria. Studies show that turmeric mouth rinse that is made from mixing turmeric and water is as effective as chemical mouthwash that contains chlorhexidiene,

The turmeric is also anti-inflammatory, so there is an added benefit to your gums when you add the spice to your dental hygiene regimen. Much of gum disease begins as inflammation.

Baking Soda Rinse

Although you may not want to brush with baking soda because of its coarse texture, the white powder is still quite alkaline. Alkaline substances have a pH value that is higher than 7.0 and can be used to help neutralize acids. Acids have a pH that is less than 7.0.

To use baking soda in a rinse, simple add about a teaspoon of the substance into a cup of water, mix and swish the solution around your mouth before spitting it out.

If you are concerned about lowering the number of bacteria in your mouth to protect your teeth from acid, there are multiple measures you can take. However, you should never neglect brushing, flossing and dental visits. If you have not had a dental appointment within the last six months, schedule an appointment with a dentist (such as one from Havendale Dental Office PA) in your area.

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