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How To Kill Bacteria In The Mouth Naturally
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It may seem improbable, but bacteria are always hiding and multiplying in our mouths. These microorganisms are present on the tongue, between the gaps in teeth and the space between gums and teeth. The colonies of bacteria in the mouth consist of good and bad types. Bad bacteria can affect our health, so our immune system restricts them. However, when the population of bad bacteria increases in the mouth, it leads to cavities, bad breath and gum problems.

The good thing is that we can reduce their presence in the mouth by maintaining hygiene and strong immunity. According to expert dentists in Hope Island, it is essential to keep working on improving oral health to ensure our teeth and gums are not getting targeted by infection-causing bad bacteria. Here is how we can kill bacteria in the mouth naturally. These tips can help keep your mouth healthy and reduce the risk of developing tooth and gum problems.

1. Brush Teeth Twice A Day

The easiest way to rid the mouth of bacteria is to stop them from creating a sticky film over teeth known as plaque that gives rise to cavities. The acid produced by the plaque while eating food erodes the tooth enamel and leads to tooth decay. Brushing in the morning and at night after dinner helps to remove plaque and stops it from hardening and turning into tartar, which can cause gum problems. Use natural and organic toothpaste and change your toothbrush every three months to maintain hygiene.

2. Reduce Sugar Intake

Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and starchy foods, which helps them to multiply. Sugar provides an easy to metabolise source of energy to the microorganisms, which helps in their quick growth. High sugar intake increases the presence of bacteria in the mouth. Thus, to avoid their overpopulation, it is vital to restrict the consumption of chocolates, candies, soda, fruit juices, cookies, cakes, breads, pasta, potato chips and fast foods.

3. Rinse With Salt Water

Bacteria build-up in the mouth can be harmful to teeth and gums. It can be kept under control by mouth rinsing after every meal. This helps to wash away acids produced by foods and particles stuck in the corners and between teeth. Reputed Dentists in Hope Island recommend saltwater rinses for killing bacteria naturally. The saline water increases the pH level of the mouth and curbs the growth of microorganisms. It also reduces bad breath and helps relieve the pain caused by mouth sores.

4. Eat More Fibrous Foods

Consuming a healthy diet with high fibre content is highly recommended by Hope Island dentists to keep bacteria at bay. Eating fresh and crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, pears, carrots, broccoli, and celery boost saliva production in the mouth. It helps to remove harmful bacteria and enhances overall health. In addition, include leafy greens in your meals to get ample amount of calcium and folic acid.

5. Try Oil Pulling for Oral Health

Oil pulling is an ancient practice that helps kill oral bacteria. It reduces the risk of gingivitis and bad breath. It can be easily performed at home by putting one tablespoon of extra virgin coconut oil in the mouth and swishing it around for 15 to 20 minutes. The oil washes away the bacteria and can be spit out. It is vital to brush after oil pulling to remove the residual oil in the mouth. It is ideal to do this activity on an empty stomach.

6. Maintain Healthy Vitamin D Levels

Vitamin D is utilised by our body for absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorus, which is needed for bone and tooth mineralisation. It is produced naturally in the body through sunlight exposure. Vitamin D is essential for oral health as it helps to keep teeth strong and improves immunity. It has been found to increase good antimicrobial proteins that reduce the risk of cavities and gingivitis.

7. Consume More Green Tea

While tea and coffee are known for tooth staining, green tea is an exception. It is a healing beverage that contains antioxidants that help to remove bacteria by decreasing the acidity of saliva. However, to make it a healthy beverage, it should not have any sugar content. Green tea also contains polyphenols that decrease plaque and the risk of developing gum disease.

8. Opt for Herbs and Spices

Clove is a spice that is known to reduce toothache. It is antibacterial in nature and contains eugenol which reduces pain and inflammation of gums. Chewing a clove can help remove bacteria. Holy basil is another antibacterial herb that can be chewed to eliminate bad bacteria. Dentists in Hope Island also suggest chewing a clove of garlic to get rid of microorganisms in the mouth because of its antibacterial properties. Other herbs and spices that can be consumed for oral health benefits include peppermint, neem, sesame, cinnamon, etc.

Wrapping Up

Bacteria in the mouth can create problems when their growth becomes unchecked due to poor oral hygiene and an unhealthy lifestyle. Thus, to keep your teeth and mouth healthy, it is vital to follow the tips mentioned above.