9 Unique Ways to Clean Your Teeth and Gums without Using Toothpaste

Taking care of our bodies is an important daily routine. From washing our hair to eating properly, it’s necessary to take care of ourselves. Dental hygiene is also a vital step. However, sometimes the tools we use can be harmful. The chemicals in toothpaste, like fluoride and titanium, can have damaging effects like causing acne or even cancer. There are a host of healthier, natural options for cleaning your teeth. Here are nine unique ways to clean your teeth and gums without toothpaste.

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a great addition to any beauty or health regimen. It’s an excellent hair and skin moisturizer, and can be used as a natural cleaner for your teeth. Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties which makes it great for preventing oral conditions like gingivitis or cavities. It can also be combined with baking soda or used for oil pulling.

2. Dry Brushing

This will definitely feel a little strange at first. But dry brushing is a great option if you can’t be bothered to search through all the natural options. Be mindful of using a toothbrush with soft bristles in order to avoid any scratches or damage to your teeth and gums.

3. Baking Soda

This is easily one of the most popular alternatives to traditional toothpaste. You can either use it without adding anything; just coat your brush in it, then brush as normal. Another option is to dissolve the baking soda and then brush with the solution. This is also a great method for cleaning your Invisalign aligners or dentures. Just let them soak in the solution. If the idea of brushing with baking soda is too far-fetched for your taste, you can use it instead to make your own mouthwash.

4. Oil Pulling

This is a fairly recent trend that is a great way to maintain your oral health without any expensive additions. You can use a variety of oils but coconut oil is the most popular. Swish the oil around your mouth for about a minute and a half before brushing with plain water or another healthy alternative like baking soda.

5. Strawberries and Tomatoes

Using fruit as a natural substitute is an effective solution in various aspects of life, generally for diets. But they can also be beneficial for your oral health, as well. Both strawberries and tomatoes have high levels of Vitamin C. The Vitamin C will stimulate your body’s natural healing. Apply the fruit pulp directly to your teeth and let it sit for roughly 5 minutes to soften the plaque that’s built up from daily eating. Afterwards, rinse with a mix of warm water and baking soda.

6. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a great natural ingredient that is used for a variety of ailments. People generally think of hydrogen peroxide as a cleaner for wounds or cuts. That’s why it’s great for dental maintenance. While also helping to maintain your oral health, it will help keep your teeth white, as well. Dip your toothbrush in the hydrogen peroxide before brushing. You can combine this with other natural remedies, too.

7. Green Tea

This one works as both an external and internal remedy. You’ll want to drink one or two glasses of green tea extract per day. Studies have shown that doing so will help reduce the rate of periodontal disease and protect your oral health in the long-term.

8. Clove Oil  

This is a great option if you have problems with bleeding gums or any other form of periodontal disease. You’ll find clove oil in many of the treatments for gum so using it alone makes for an even stronger solution. The best and easiest way to use this is to gently rub it into your gums. While initially, there is a slight burning situation it will disappear with continued use.

9. Sea Salt

Sea salt is not just a benefit to your diet. It’s also a great addition to your oral routine. Because the granules are large, they do a great job of rubbing away debris. If you’re worried that the grains might do damage, you can dissolve the salt into warm water before brushing.

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9 Unique Ways to Clean Your Teeth and Gums without Using Toothpaste