As a holistic mom and nurse I am dedicated to natural living. I’m always on the lookout for natural ways to keep my family healthy—especially when it comes to something as important as dental care. Our gums and teeth play a crucial role in our overall health, and I’ve found that using essential oils in our oral care routine has made a significant difference. If you’re looking to boost your family’s dental health naturally, here are the 5 top essential oils for healthy gums and teeth that have become staples in our home.
Why Essential Oils for Oral Health?
Essential oils have been used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits, and in recent years, their use in oral health has gained popularity. Unlike conventional dental products that often contain artificial ingredients, essential oils are natural and offer a range of benefits, from reducing inflammation and fighting bacteria to freshening breath and relieving pain. These oils are packed with natural chemicals and compounds that can help protect your teeth and gums, making them a fantastic addition to your dental care routine.
Whether you’re dealing with gum inflammation, bad breath, or just looking to maintain a healthy smile, essential oils can provide a natural and effective solution. Now, let’s dive into the best essential oils for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and how you can incorporate them into your daily oral care routine.
1. Clove Oil: A Powerhouse for Dental Health
Clove oil is the superstar of essential oils for healthy gums and teeth! With its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, clove oil is often used to alleviate tooth pain and reduce gum inflammation. Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural chemical with anesthetic properties, making it a go-to for soothing dental discomfort.
Create Your Own Custom Mouthwash for Pennies
Are you ready to make your own custom mouthwash for pennies? It’s incredibly easy, and you can tailor it to your taste and needs!
Just add 8 drops of each oil listed below to a glass jar or your old DoTerra mouthwash bottle and top with 2 cups of filtered water:
- Peppermint (freshens breath)
- Spearmint (cleanses the mouth and promotes fresh breath)
- OnGuard (provides immune support)
- Clove (helps clean the teeth and gums)
Secure the jar lid or bottle and shake well. To use, swish the mouthwash for 60 seconds, then spit it out. Be sure to shake before each use. If you prefer a stronger flavor, simply double the drops!
This is a family favorite in our home!!
2. Peppermint Oil: Fresh Breath and Healthy Gums
Peppermint oil, with its refreshing minty aroma, is not only a great natural remedy for bad breath. It also has potent antimicrobial properties that can help keep harmful bacteria at bay. This oil is a popular choice for those looking to maintain a fresh and clean oral cavity, as it effectively fights oral pathogens that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
How to Use: Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a glass of water for a quick and natural mouthwash that freshens breath and supports gum health. For an invigorating DIY toothpaste, mix peppermint oil with baking soda and coconut oil. This not only helps clean your teeth but also leaves your mouth feeling minty fresh. Peppermint is always in my bag; and when ever one of my children or I need a bit of a refreshener we drop the tiniest of a drop on our tongue. This is a quick altoid blast that your breath will thank you later for!
3. Tea Tree Oil: An Antibacterial Powerhouse
Tea tree oil is renowned for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Which makes it a top choice for those dealing with gum inflammation or periodontal disease. Its ability to fight harmful bacteria makes it an excellent addition to any oral care routine.
How to Use: Tea tree oil can be added to your oral hygiene routine in several ways. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil for oil pulling. This is a technique that involves swishing the oil around in your mouth to pull out toxins and bacteria. Alternatively, add a drop to your toothpaste or mouthwash to enhance its antibacterial effects. Just be cautious with tea tree oil, as it’s not recommended for internal use.
4. Coconut Oil: The Ultimate Carrier Oil for Oil Pulling for Healthy Gums and Teeth
While not technically an “essential oil”, coconut oil deserves a spot on this list for its role as a carrier oil in oil pulling. A traditional practice that has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to improve oral health. This is for good reason, I have started adding it to my routine. I love the feel of my teeth after I finish for the day. Coconut oil’s antimicrobial properties make it effective in reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth, preventing tooth decay, and promoting healthy gums.
How to Use: For oil pulling, take 2 teaspoons of coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes before spitting it out. At first this may be challenging, but it gets easier as you do it! The thing to understand is that this simple practice can help reduce plaque, prevent bad breath, and support overall dental health. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oils, like peppermint or tea tree oil, to enhance the effects.
5. Cinnamon Oil: A Warm, Spicy Essential Oil for Healthy Gums and teeth
Cinnamon oil, derived from cinnamon bark, is another fantastic essential oil for dental care. Its powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in fighting oral pathogens, soothing gum pain, and promoting healthy teeth.
How to Use: Incorporate cinnamon oil into your oral care routine by adding a drop to your toothpaste or mouthwash. Its warm, spicy flavor not only enhances the taste but also provides therapeutic benefits for your gums and teeth. If you’re experiencing a sore throat, cinnamon oil can be used in a homemade gargle to relieve discomfort.
Other Essential Oils Worth Mentioning for healthy gums and teeth
- Oregano Oil: Known for its powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, oregano oil is another great choice for maintaining oral health. It’s particularly effective against bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
- Lavender Oil: Lavender essential oil is well-known for its calming effects. However, it also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe gum inflammation and support overall dental health.
- Thyme Oil: Part of the mint family, thyme oil boasts strong antimicrobial properties that make it effective in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria in the oral cavity.
DIY Toothpaste Recipe Using Essential Oils
One of the best ways to incorporate these essential oils into your daily routine is by making your own DIY toothpaste. This allows you to take control of what goes into your oral care products! Which ensures they are free from harmful chemicals and packed with natural ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (as the base carrier oil)
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda (a natural cleanser)
- 10 drops of peppermint oil (for fresh breath)
- 5 drops of clove oil (for gum health)
- 3 drops of cinnamon oil (for antimicrobial properties)
- Optional: a few drops of tea tree oil (for additional antibacterial benefits)
Instructions:
- Melt the coconut oil in a small bowl.
- Add the baking soda and essential oils, and mix until well combined.
- Store the mixture in a small jar, away from direct sunlight.
- Use a small amount to brush your teeth twice a day for a natural, effective cleanser.
Precautions and Final Thoughts dental care with essential oils
While essential oils offer numerous benefits for dental care, it’s important to use them correctly to avoid side effects. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil for topical application, and be mindful of using oils that are safe for internal use. If you have any medical conditions or concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider before adding essential oils to your routine!
Incorporating these 5 Top Essential Oils for Healthy Gums and Teeth into your oral care routine is a fun and effective way to naturally support your gum and tooth health. Whether you’re dealing with gum inflammation, tooth pain, or just looking to freshen your breath, there’s an essential oil that can help. By using these natural remedies, you’re taking control of what goes into your family’s dental care products, ensuring they’re free from harmful chemicals and packed with health-boosting ingredients.
Remember, regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist are still key components of a healthy oral care routine. However, the use of these 5 Top Essential Oils for Healthy Gums and Teeth can be a powerful addition to keep your smile bright and your gums happy. So why not give these natural solutions a try and experience the difference they can make? Go ahead and click here to purchase any or all of these oils (customize your cart to how you want) to start your journey of healthy oral care with natural solutions. Happy brushing!
Leave a Reply