We’re fascinated how oral health really does affect the health of the entire body!
I have been busy looking for natural toothpaste and oral health options as I recommit our family to healthier choices. Here are links to a couple of the things I have discovered and I’ll share the recipe that I am currently using in addition to our favorite doTERRA OnGuard toothpaste ( which we have with us when we are traveling).
Some of my favorite recipes to date are:
Some of the other recipes also include coconut oil, people have complained about the toothpaste being too hard to use when it is cool, but I now use FCO (fractionated coconut oil) which maintains a liquid form as the fats have been processed out of it.
A simpler recipe…
Incidentally, it also seems to be the best whitening toothpaste I’ve used, especially when combined with oil pulling and/or charcoal (not at the same time).
The exact ingredients I use are:
- Pure Calcium Carbonate Powder
- Non-GMO Xylitol Powder
- MCT oil (I’ve also used this less expensive one with good results)
I also use various essential oils to taste. I usually end up using a mix and using quote a bit. Essential oils provide some extra cleansing power but are not really necessary in this recipe.
Tips
Xylitol is naturally a little coarse so you can run it through the blender to make a really fine powder before making this recipe.
After it is blended add the other ingredients to the blender until it is smooth. The blender can be a challenge to clean so wipe it out with a paper towel to remove residue and then wash as normal.
I store this in small glass jars and each person gets his/her own jar of toothpaste. I’ve also used these reusable tubes in the past and they are a little more time consuming to fill but they also work really well with this recipe.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Calcium Carbonate Powder
- 3 Tablespoons Xylitol powder
- ¼ cup MCT oil (plus more for thinning if needed)
- Essential oils of choice (optional)
Instructions
- Make sure the xylitol is finely ground and not coarse.
- Mix all ingredients by hand or with a blender until incorporated.
- Store in a glass jar and use as you would regular toothpaste.
According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), the most important thing people want to change about their smile is the whiteness of their teeth, and almost 100 percent of those surveyed believe a great smile is one of their most important “social assets.” So it’s no surprise that there’s so many whitening products on the market today to do this. But brighter smiles have been desirable long before modern solutions were available, and making a homemade teeth whitening paste is a fun and safe way to brighten your smile when used in tandem with professional care products.
How to Whiten Teeth at Home
Most products today use carbamide peroxide, some of which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide – the main bleaching agent, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). And studies show bleaching is generally safe. As a general rule for Do It Yourself (DIY) whitening, using everyday solutions in moderation – like baking soda, coconut oil and a small amount of hydrogen peroxide – can make an effect. Several homemade solutions start with baking soda as the base, combined with other natural ingredients for consistency. Here are a few of them.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
A simple toothpaste consisting of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda can create a brighter smile. Baking soda combined with water, explains MDHealth.com, releases free radicals that break down stain-causing molecules on tooth enamel. Here’s your best approach:
- Use less baking soda than hydrogen peroxide, and make sure your paste isn’t gritty.
- Combine about two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with one tablespoon of baking soda.
- Stir it into a paste and start brushing.
- Let the paste stand about a minute and then rinse.
It’s always important to thoroughly rinse your mouth afterward so no hydrogen peroxide or baking soda is left over. And above all, limit use of your paste to two or three times a week. Excessive use of baking soda can have the reverse effect of cleaning, breaking down your enamel over time and causing sensitivity in your teeth. So, make sure you maintain your regular oral care regimen.
Apple Cider Vinegar
You might be surprised to learn per Reader’s Digest that Apple cider vinegar not only is good for cleaning your house but also your teeth and has natural whitening properties. Used in conjunction with baking soda it actually helps to remove stains and whiten your teeth. Keep in mind results aren’t instant, but using apple cider vinegar over a period of weeks can make a difference. To make your teeth whitening paste, two parts apple cider vinegar to one part baking soda is ideal. You can also add a drop of doTERRA OnGuard Protective Blend and Myrrh for support of sensitive teeth and gums. Again, less is more when it comes to baking soda. Try this solution a few times a week, or simply use the apple cider vinegar as a mild mouth rinse along with your daily brushing with OnGuard Tooth paste.
Coconut Oil and Peppermint Leaf
Although research is still inconclusive to the effect of coconut oil on oral health and bacteria, it has been considered for its stain-decreasing properties. Coconut oil, with a drop of spearmint essential oil, can help remove some of the surface bacteria that yellows teeth. According to Authority Nutrition, coconut oil contains lauric acid, an agent that breaks down bacteria. Like apple cider vinegar, it’s not an immediate solution, so using it over time will have the best effect. But unlike baking soda-based whiteners, it’s safe to use coconut oil daily and any measurement can work. Oil Pulling with Fractionated Coconut Oil and a drop of Spearmint and or On Guard will also help support healthy teeth and gums.
Making your own teeth whitening paste is fun, increases the brightness of your smile and attacks the foods and drinks that are the worst offenders of staining teeth in the first place. To this end, stay away from any citric-based homemade solution, like lemon, orange or strawberry. The acid in these fruits can break down and harm your enamel.
Remember that using homemade tooth whitening paste as your only oral care isn’t optimal for good oral health. Continue with your normal routine of flossing and brushing, along with your regular dentist visits to maintain healthy and reduce the expense of cavities or repair. Best way to maintain a healthy and happier you is a bright smile.
