Brushing and rinsing, combined with a well-balanced diet, help ensure you have a healthy smile and pleasant breath. They may also improve your long-term health, as many illnesses start in the mouth.
People have believed for centuries that bad teeth signify bad health. It was only comparatively recently that gum inflammation was identified as the problem. The theory is that bacteria from dental plaque seep into the bloodstream via inflamed gums and produce enzymes that make blood platelets stickier and more likely to clot, contributing to the hardening of the arteries. The good news is that this risk factor can easily be controlled.
Healthy teeth and strong gums are the product of conscientious care and good nutrition. Sugar is the number one enemy, as it damages teeth in two ways: by interfering with the absorption of calcium and by causing tooth decay. Milk products, however, contain a healthy amount of calcium, which hardens teeth. To keep gums healthy and strong, eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables that contain vitamin C.
A TOOTHBRUSH SHOULD FIT IN YOUR HAND comfortably.
• Good tooth care does not end with brushing. Cleaning between teeth at least once a day with dental floss is essential. Guide the floss between teeth and wrap it in a “C” shape at the base of the tooth, slightly under the gum line. Slide the floss up to the top of the tooth several times. Finish by rinsing your mouth.
• Recent findings indicate that there’s no difference between a regular or electric toothbrush when it comes to thorough cleaning. Because of their rapid, rotating motion, electric toothbrushes clean your teeth effectively in a much shorter time, but brushing carefully by hand for 2–3 minutes is equally effective. In either case, replace your toothbrush every 2–3 months.
• Halitosis is often caused by a coating on the tongue, but this is simple to remedy. Just slide a tongue scraper over the tongue several times, twice a day.
Moderately sized heads reach into corners and angles effectively
• For a gum-refreshing tooth powder, finely grate 8 teaspoons (40 g) dried orange peel and mix with about 2 tablespoons (30 g) dried peppermint leaves and 2 teaspoons (10 g) sea salt. Store in a screw-top container. When brushing your teeth, just sprinkle a little powder on a moistened toothbrush.
• For a whitening tooth powder, mix a small container of baking soda with 2–3 drops caraway oil. Don’t use it too often as the abrasive action may damage weak tooth enamel.
• To make a tooth powder for sensitive teeth and gums, mix together 1/4 cup (50 g) powdered arrowroot, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) cornstarch, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fine kitchen salt and 5 drops each cinnamon, myrrh and clove essential oils. Sift to remove lumps; store in a china or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. To use, press a moistened toothbrush into the mixture.
• You can also keep your gums healthy by rubbing them with the inside of a lemon skin. Alternatively, brush your teeth occasionally with warm sage tea.
Using mouthwash after brushing leaves your mouth fresh and clean.
• To make a pleasant smelling, refreshing mouthwash mix 1/4 cup (50 ml) each water and vodka and 3 drops each of eucalyptus, anise and clove oils in a small bottle. Add 1 teaspoon (5 ml) mouthwash to a glass of water and gargle.
• For another refreshing rinse, mix 2 cups (500 ml) vodka, 2 teaspoons (10 ml) peppermint oil, 1/2 teaspoon (2 ml) cinnamon oil and 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) anise oil. Add a dash to a glass of water; rinse.
• To make a mouthwash that will help to keep gums healthy, mix 2 teaspoons (10 ml) each arnica, propolis and sage tinctures. Add 10 drops of the mixture to a glass of water and rinse.
Rose flower mouthwash
4 tablespoons (60 g) rose flowers
3 tablespoons (45 g) sage leaves
1 tablespoon (15 g) strawberry leaves
2/3 cup (150 ml) cider vinegar
1/2 cup (100 ml) rosewater
Mix herbs in a sealable container and pour the heated cider vinegar over the top. Steep for 10 days, strain, then wring out herbs well. Mix the remaining liquid with rosewater and pour through a filter. Add a dash to a glass of water and rinse.
Flossing will clean your gums and the spaces between your teeth.
