Oral health is essential for your teeth and for your overall health. A lack of proper care can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even heart problems. So, it’s crucial that you take good care of your mouth. Most methods of oral hygiene consist of standard toothpaste and mouthwash. Unfortunately, these tend to be full of harsh chemicals that can be harmful. However, there are more natural solutions to oral care, and here at Smiles by Shields Dentistry, we’re dedicated to supporting your oral health holistically.

In this article, we’ll discuss how to clean your mouth from bacteria naturally.

8 Natural Ways To Clean Your Mouth

While there are many standard oral care products, it can sometimes be challenging to find a natural oral detox solution. Below, we list our favorite ways to detox your mouth naturally and effectively.

Tongue Scraping

Tongue scraping is a traditional method of oral care, using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria, food build-up and debris from the mouth. The tongue scraping tool has been used for thousands of years. This technique helps to clean the mouth and freshen the breath.

Natural Toothpaste

When cleaning your teeth, make sure to use natural toxin-free toothpaste. A good toothpaste will be antibacterial and free of sodium lauryl / laureth sulfate and other chemicals. Instead, use a toothpaste consisting of natural ingredients and breath fresheners such as peppermint, eucalyptus, licorice or clove.

Natural Toothbrushes

The American Dental Association estimates that one billion plastic toothbrushes are disposed of every year, creating millions of pounds of waste. For those looking for a more natural and environmentally friendly solution, choose a toothbrush made from natural, biodegradable materials such as recycled plastic or bamboo.

Natural Floss

Flossing daily is crucial to any effective oral health routine. Flossing helps keep the mouth fresh, remove debris stuck between teeth and keep gums healthy. Choose a floss made with antimicrobial oils such as tea tree. Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant that has been shown to significantly reduce gingivitis (gum disease).

Natural Mouthwash

Neem oil, from the neem tree found in India, has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal mouth rinse.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that has been used for centuries. It involves using coconut oil as a mouthwash. Taking a mouthful of oil, swill it around your mouth for between five and 15 minutes in order to reach every crevice and clear your mouth of harmful bugs.

Diet and Nutrition

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy oils such as avocado or olive oil is essential for overall health, but it’s also beneficial for oral health. Reducing processed foods and sugars reduces dental decay and keeps your gut healthy. Fruits and vegetables are also water-rich, another essential for optimal health, helping to keep you hydrated and naturally rinsing your mouth after eating.

Herbal Remedies for Oral Detoxification

Natural herbal remedies that support oral health include green tea, peppermint tea, and aloe vera. They all have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, aiding in breath freshening and keeping your mouth, teeth and gut in optimal condition.

How To Build a Daily Dental Routine with Smiles by Shields

Building a daily oral hygiene routine is key to maintaining your oral health. Start small with one change to your current routine and build from there. Swapping your current toothbrush and toothpaste for more natural solutions is a budget-friendly way to begin your natural oral health care journey and is easy to integrate into your current routine. Smile by Shields is the premier integrative dentistry practice in Jacksonville, FL, and we’re dedicated to guiding you through your natural oral health care journey. Schedule an appointment with us today to begin your path toward healthy natural dental care.