Most people stick to the pharmacy section of their grocery store of choice to find their dental supplies, but others venture out further to seek alternative methods of cleaning that compliments their regular routine. Some of these items may already be in your kitchen! And while none of these can effectively replace regular cleaning habits, it’s nice to compliment your routine with a little extra work.
Add These to Your Grocery List
Bananas. Bananas are considered a healthy potassium-filled snack, one that comes with its own “wrapper” - the yellow peal. Before tossing it in the trash, treat the yellow exterior like a brush and rub the mineral-laced inner layer on your teeth. As you would with any snack, rinse your mouth out with water afterward, but not immediately; give those minerals, carbohydrates, and fiber enough time to soak in.
Vinegar. You may have heard that baking soda and apple cider vinegar can replace your shampoo, but did you know vinegar alone can help remove stains from your teeth? Don’t consider it a replacement for mouth wash, however; due to its caustic nature, your enamel can be weakened after excess use. Vinegar has also been known to kill harmful bacteria in your mouth, therefore preventing gum disease.
Water. One item that can replace mouth wash however is plain water. Hydration is key to health living in general, and dehydration can seriously compromise your oral health as well. Regularly drinking or swishing with water helps your saliva fight bacteria and helps loosen up stubborn food particles that can get stuck in the teeth.
Green tea. The benefits of antioxidants in your system are numerous, but green tea is also great for preventing gum disease and improving your breath. Just make sure to treat sugary versions of green tea like regular, sugary soda: Rinse afterward.
The More You Know!
It’s important to make your oral health a priority. Brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent disease, but it’s also helpful to seek out other methods you can try at home. Adding some variety to your cleaning routine can help regular day-to-day habits not seem so ordinary. Of course, you should also maintain a solid relationship with your dentist office, going in every six months for routine cleanings and exams. Call today for an appointment, and we’ll see how these remedies have been treating your smile!