Natural Alternatives to Fluoride

When the oral benefits of fluoride were first discovered in the early 20^th century, it greatly changed the rate in which people suffered from tooth decay. In fact, so many people experienced tooth decay before this time, that fluoride was added to drinking water all over the nation to protect children from cavities. As you know, cavities are notorious for leading to more serious and destructive oral conditions. Of course, fluoride also became the main ingredient in toothpastes, mouthwashes, and other oral care products.

However, in recent years, some researchers have found that fluoride is toxic when ingested long-term. Fluoride is believed to be a neurotoxin, meaning it disrupts your cognitive function and development. Since fluoride can cause so many issues, it’s no wonder people are looking for natural alternatives to protecting teeth against cavities and decay.

Coconut Oil

If you don’t already have coconut oil stored in your cupboard, then you’re not with the times. In addition to the many other health benefits coconut oil offers, it can also whiten your teeth and prevent cavities. Coconut oil can prevent cavity-causing bacteria from growing and decreases the amount of plaque on your teeth. Furthermore, oil pulling—which is swishing coconut oil between your teeth for at least 10 to 15 minutes—can also help clean residue from food and drink that may have clung to your teeth. This further protects your tooth enamel, keeping your teeth safe from cavities and decay. Our alkaline mouthwash tablets have coconut oil in them for all of the benefits stated above, but are much easier to carry around when traveling.

Neem

Neem leaves come from the evergreen Neem tree, which is native to India. Although ingesting neem oil can benefit your physical health, chewing neem leaves has extensive benefits for your oral hygiene. Both tradition and recent studies attest to neem leaves’ ability to get rid of bad breath and kill harmful bacteria. Consequently, neem leaves can prevent plaque build-up, leading to a healthier and white smile. You can also chew neem bark or twigs or boil the neem leaves in water to make a mouthwash solution.

Myrrh

Myrrh is a gum derived from a tree, but it can be made into a tincture (an alcoholic extract) for common use. Many mouthwashes and oral sprays are made with myrrh tincture because it kills bacteria that causes bad breath. It has also been known to help reduce inflammation in the gums, which means it helps prevent gingivitis. By killing harmful oral bacteria, myrrh works to protect your teeth from decay and your gums from disease.

Additional Sources:

https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/9-shocking-dangers-of-fluoride/

https://friscominimolars.com/weird-kind-disgusting-history-fluoride/

https://allaboutneem.com/blogtop-5-ways-to-use-neem-for-teeth-and-gums/

https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/blog/myrrh-tincture-vs-coconut-oil