Sesame Oil as Mouthwash
Oil pulling is a type of Ayurvedic medicinal practice; the process of rinsing one's mouth with oil has occurred for thousands of years. The practice is a traditional oral hygiene behavior in India where the process has been used for the remineralization of tooth enamel, boost gum health and to prevent dental problems such as tooth decay and gum bleeding. Research has found that using sesame seed oil for oral health is chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing dental plaque.
The findings have come via a controlled, triple-blind study of teenage males already diagnosed with plaque-induced gingivitis. A total group of 20 participants were divided into two teams by researchers; one that practiced oil pulling and another that used chlorhexidine mouthwash daily. The oil users experienced lower plaque counts, "...modified gingival scores, and total colony count of aerobic microorganisms in the plaque of adolescents with plaque-induced gingivitis," (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19336860).
Chew Sticks Instead of Toothbrush
Prior to the advent and the ultimate mass production of toothbrushes in 1885, humans relied on a variety of devices to clean teeth. Options included ash and cloth, animal quills and twigs and the fact is, the right twig can act as an effective tooth cleaning device.
Some twig options proven to boost dental health include the Ethiopian Chewing stick (AJA the Zana); South African Dental Association Researchers found out that the extract produced from chewing on the stick can effectively kill oral bacteria. Branches from the Neem Tree (native to India and Pakistan) have been shown to be effective for improving dental health, thanks to the foaming action activated by chewing. Licorice root is another tasty chew that has dental health benefits in regards to fighting tooth decay and cavities.
There are several ways chew sticks are believed to promote dental health. Chewing on those devices can allow for hard to reach spots holding dental plaque to be reached, the natural products are inexpensive, individuals who struggle to implement traditional oral hygiene can more easily chew on a stick and sticks can be chewed anytime and at almost any social setting.
Regardless of what products are used to boost oral health, the behaviors can be even more rewarding when individuals follow the practices of eating a nutritious diet following the Government's Nutrition Plate, making clean fresh water (not soda or soft drinks) the beverage of choice and by exercising to stay trim and naturally lower levels of dental plaque. Regular visits to a dentist for exams and cleanings are also a must and 1-800-Dentist can connect those in need with a great dentist, anytime of day or night.