Maintaining a healthy smile is simple and easy if you follow these basic hacks each day. They will enable you to combat plaque and tartar, minimising the risk of gum disease, help to whiten enamel and reduce the risk of bad breath. Whilst visiting a dentist is something everyone should be encouraged to do, preventative measures to negate the effects of poor hygiene will always be the first step towards better health.

Coconut Oil

If there was ever a wonder product, it's coconut oil. This shopping item can be used for more than just eating, it helps to kill bacteria, fungus and microbes which are one of the main causes of bad breath and gum disease, also known as gingivitis. This can cause red, inflamed gums which can bleed and cause teeth to become loosened. Fortunately this can be easily remedied by removing the plaque before it turns into tartar. Plaque itself is a slimy residue of bacteria that can calcify and turn into a hard yellow-like substance that is very difficult to remove and requires a trip to the dentist. With a regular brushing routine supplemented with mouthwash or a more natural product like coconut oil, you can remove the plaque before this happens. The process of using coconut oil as a mouthwash is called oil swishing and it has been used for many years, particularly in Eastern cultures. 

Bicarbonate of Soda and Vegetables

Whitening teeth can be simple too. Once again you can supplement your regular brushing routine with natural materials. Eating things like celery and strawberries works well for exfoliating the enamel, whilst bicarbonate of soda can be used in conjunction with coconut oil to create a thick toothpaste. Just mix the two together and use after brushing as a homemade teeth whitening recipe. You'll need to mix in quantities that allow it to be applied without breaking up or being too loose. 

Bad Breath

As mentioned earlier, prevention is better than cure. Try to reduce bad breath by staying hydrated and avoiding strong foods and drinks. You can also drink through a straw whenever possible to limit the contact of certain acidic drinks with your teeth, and mix herbs and fruit into your water to help encourage drinking. Mint leaves are great for this as they also have properties that can aid with digestion, a known cause of creating gas which may result in bad breath. 

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