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Dental hygiene is a matter of protecting your teeth from bacteria and a bunch of healthy habits. There are easy and natural ways you can do that without having to break a sweat. Take a look at some organic methods to take care of your teeth.

Healthy habits for healthy teeth

The following are the most basic habits that form the cornerstones for oral hygiene. Everyone should stick to them without fail in order to maintain the health of their teeth.

• Brushing

Never fail to brush your teeth twice a day. It is very important that you stick to this regime if you are to maintain your teeth in a good condition. It helps get rid of plaque buildup between your teeth thus preventing tooth decay and infections. Any 5-year-old will know all these facts. Now, when you brush make sure that you use a brush with soft bristles. Hard-bristled brush can cause damage to the enamel coating and gums. You can use toothpowder or toothpaste to brush. Both are equally effective.

• Flossing

Flossing is as important as brushing. Dental floss can reach places in your mouth that toothbrush cannot and removes the plaque that has accumulated in these areas. You can use regular dental floss for the job or there are tiny brushes available specifically made for the purpose.

Natural ways to care for your teeth

In addition to the above compulsory habits, there are other natural methods you can adopt to maintain perfect teeth. Here are a few of them:

• Drink more water

Increasing the frequency of your water intake is a fairly inexpensive way of caring for your teeth. It will wash away the plaque that has accumulated between teeth and help in keeping your teeth clean. It also stimulates the production of saliva. Saliva is a natural antibacterial agent and will fend off infection in teeth. Remember to stay away from sugary drinks, which can do a lot of damage to your teeth. Adding lemon to your water should also be avoided as the acidic content may lead to teeth erosion. You can add a few drops of lemon oil for flavour if you want.

• Clove

Good old clove is one of the most popular natural ways to keep your teeth healthy. The clove has antiseptic properties that will help the fight infection. Chewing clove daily will do wonders to your oral health. If you are suffering from toothache, chewing a clove can give you relief within minutes. Applying clove oil is also equally effective. Clove is inexpensive as well as easily available in any kitchen.

• Vegetable oils

A technique called oil pulling has been found to be highly effective in keeping the teeth healthy. It is based on an ancient ayurvedic practice. It basically involves swishing your mouth with unrefined vegetable oils such as olive oil or coconut oil for about 20 minutes. It is known to have numerous benefits when it comes to the hygiene of your teeth. It helps cleanse the mouth, lessen sensitivity, kill bacteria in the mouth, and whiten the teeth.

• Baking soda

Baking soda is an item that is easily available in any regular kitchen. It has great antiseptic properties and will help ward off bacteria when used in the mouth. You use it by sprinkling it on your toothpaste while brushing. This will make your teeth extra clean and whiten the enamel to make it shinier. You can also use a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide instead of your regular toothpaste for extra special tooth care. Do not use it daily as the acidic content may end up damaging your teeth. Try it 3-4 times a week.

• Green tea

Green tea is known to be one of the most effective cleansing drinks for your teeth. It contains compounds called polyphenols, which have the ability to inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth. It will also help prevent build up of plaque between teeth. Have green tea after your morning meal every day for best results.

• Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil not only has antiseptic properties, it can give a cooling effect in your mouth too. It has been found to be an effective herbal mouthwash. Mix 3 drops of peppermint oil, sugar, ¾ teaspoon of boric acid solution in water. Use this solution to rinse your mouth to get rid of the bacteria in your mouth.