Something to smile about natural dental care - bodycare - Brief Article

A mouthful of white teeth is more than merely cosmetic: Those 32 little bones are responsible for the primary steps in digestion, and the US Department of Health and Human Services says their health is linked to diabetes, heart disease, stroke--and even depression.

"The health of the mouth reflects the overall health of the body, and proper care of your teeth and gums may help prevent other forms of illness," says Kathleen Taggersell, spokesperson for Tom's of Maine.

Most mainstream toothpastes and mouthwashes contain artificial flavors and colors, saccharin, bleaches and other synthetic ingredients that can have adverse effects on oral--and overall--health. So try the following natural-product plan. It will give your whole body something to smile about.

choose the best brush. The most important component in dental care is a toothbrush. Look for soft bristles and a flexible handle that can help you brush the way dentists recommend--at a 45-degree angle. "A flexible handle acts like a shock absorber," says Mare Warsowe, president of Eco-Dent Premium Oral Care. "If the toothbrush is too rigid, excess pressure can be transferred to the mouth and can damage your gums."

Some to try: Recycline Preserve recyclable toothbrushes, Eco-Dent Terradent replaceable head toothbrush, Monte Blanco Clip toothbrush, and Bass Nylon Bristle toothbrush.

try a toothpaste-plus. Toothpastes freshen breath and provide additional cleaning action. "If they contain healing ingredients, they also contribute to tooth and gum health," says Christine Mack, communications director for Weleda.

Look for natural toothpastes containing baking soda, sea salt or calcium carbonate to remove plaque and polish teeth. Essential oils like peppermint, cinnamon and wintergreen stimulate gums and add flavor. Perilla seed extract blocks sugar acids and helps prevent the formation of plaque. Other ingredients such as propolis, myrrh, tea tree and echinacea can help slow bacterial growth, strengthen gum tissue and prevent inflammation.

Some to try: Jason's Sea Fresh Toothpaste with perilla seed, Tom's of Maine Tartar Control and Whitening toothpaste, Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil toothpaste, Eco-Dent Extra Brite Tooth Whitener, Weleda Salt toothpaste, Nature's Path Herbal Creme de Menthe toothpaste, and Nature's Answer Perio-Brite Fluoride- and Preservative-free toothpaste.

floss daily. Most dentists recommend flossing at least once per day to stimulate gums and remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas. Try a flossing ribbon or tape coated with natural waxes like jojoba, beeswax or carnuba to help floss glide between teeth without harming gums.

Some to try: Tom's Flossing Ribbon, Desert Essence Dental Tape, and Eco-Dent Gentle Floss.

rinse and freshen. Well-formulated natural mouthwashes are more than quickie breath fresheners. Most include botanical extracts to promote healthy gums. Aloe vera and calendula help soothe irritated mouth tissue.

Echinacea and goldenseal build immunity and help fight infection of the gums. Ratanhia root helps strengthen gums. And sage, thyme and myrrh contain antiseptic actions that help prevent the growth of bacteria.

Some to try: Jason Power Smile mouthwash, Heritage Hydrogen Peroxide mouthwash, Eco-Dent Ultimate Daily Rinse with echinacea and goldenseal, Tom's of Maine Natural Baking Soda mouthwash, and Weleda Ratanhia mouthwash.

focus on special needs. If you are prone to periodontal disease, look for dental products containing co-enzyme Q10.

"In some cases, restoring co-Q10 levels to normal may reverse the progression of gum disease and eliminate the need for surgery on patients in advanced stages," says Jeffrey Light, CEO of Jason Natural Cosmetics.

To prevent gingivitis, try a natural product toothpaste that contains zinc citrate. For sensitive teeth and gums, look for a toothpaste with co-enzyme A and Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM).

Some to try: Jason's Oral Comfort for sensitive teeth, Weleda Plant Gel Toothpaste for sensitive gums, Tom's of Maine Natural Antigingivitis Toothpaste, and Jason's Healthy Mouth Mouthwash with coenzyme-Q10.

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