toothpaste with coconut oil

DIY REMINERALIZING TOOTHPASTE

Here’s a simple DIY remineralizing toothpaste recipe that avoids fluoride, glycerin, SLS, and other harmful ingredients. It’s kid-friendly, eco-friendly with zero waste, gentle on sensitive teeth, and delicious in taste!

NATURAL TOOTHPASTE

Natural toothpaste always seemed a bit strange to me, especially since most commercial options aren’t safe to swallow. You’re putting it in your mouth, one of the most absorbent areas of your body, yet it’s not meant to be ingested. That just doesn’t sit right with me.

I prefer using toothpaste that’s completely safe for my body, both inside and out. This is particularly important when choosing a toothpaste for my kids. I love this remineralizing toothpaste for toddlers because it’s so natural and safe for them to use!

CAN I MAKE MY OWN TOOTHPASTE?

Absolutely! Making your own toothpaste is one of the simplest natural body care products you can create. In my opinion, this is the best remineralizing toothpaste recipe. Here are the ingredients I like to use:

  • Organic, virgin coconut oil: Great for oral health, and some people even use it for oil pulling to help heal cavities.
  • Food-grade calcium powder: Provides plenty of calcium to strengthen tooth enamel.
  • Baking soda: I use a small amount for its cleansing properties, but not too much, as it can be harsh on teeth.
  • Xylitol: There’s some debate about ingesting it, but since it helps prevent cavities and strengthen teeth, I include it. Plus, it gives the toothpaste a pleasant taste. I opt for non-GMO, non-corn xylitol.
  • Therapeutic-grade essential oils from Plant Therapy: These add extra oral health benefits. Some of my favorites include peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, cinnamon, clove, lemon, and orange.

WHAT I DON’T INCLUDE IN MY HOMEMADE TOOTHPASTE

Many DIY remineralizing toothpaste recipes include clay, such as bentonite clay. However, I choose not to include it because bentonite clay can contain aluminum, which is toxic and definitely not something I want in my mouth several times a day!

While most DIY remineralizing toothpaste recipes don’t feature this ingredient, I think it’s important to mention it. A common ingredient in many commercial toothpastes labeled as “natural” is glycerin.

So, what’s the problem with glycerin? It actually coats teeth and can linger on them for a long time. When glycerin is present, teeth cannot absorb minerals effectively, disrupting and preventing the remineralization process.

Avoiding glycerin in commercial toothpaste is one compelling reason to create this DIY remineralizing toothpaste recipe yourself.

DIY REMINERALIZING TOOTHPASTE DIRECTIONS

INGREDIENTS

  • 3/4 cup virgin coconut oil
  • 3/4 cup calcium powder
  • 1/3 cup xylitol (non-corn, non-GMO is best)
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 48 drops essential oil (peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, cinnamon, clove, or citrus oils are good choices)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Melt the coconut oil until it becomes liquid.
  • Combine the dry ingredients (calcium powder, xylitol, and baking soda) and mix well.
  • Add the melted coconut oil to the dry mixture and combine thoroughly using a whisk or immersion blender.
  • Incorporate the essential oils and mix again until everything is well blended. Ensure the essential oils are thoroughly mixed in to prevent separation later.
  • Pour the mixture into a glass storage jar and allow it to cool and solidify.
  • Enjoy your homemade remineralizing toothpaste!

HOW DOES REMINERALIZING TOOTHPASTE WORK?

As I mentioned earlier, our diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy teeth, significantly impacting the presence of decay and cavities. A nutrient-dense diet should be our primary focus when it comes to oral health.

However, what we apply to the surface of our teeth also affects their health. I designed this DIY remineralizing toothpaste with this dual purpose in mind. It contains plenty of calcium to support healthy enamel.

I consciously avoid ingredients that could inhibit remineralization, such as glycerin. Glycerin coats the teeth and prevents them from absorbing essential minerals, and it often appears in commercial toothpaste labeled as “natural.” This is a form of greenwashing, misleading consumers into thinking these products are healthy while they contain harmful chemicals.

My family has been using this DIY remineralizing toothpaste for quite a while now, and we’ve seen great results.

To keep things hygienic when multiple people are using the same jar of toothpaste, I like to use little wooden scoops to transfer the toothpaste onto our toothbrushes.

CONCLUSION

DIY remineralizing toothpaste is a natural and affordable alternative to store-bought options. By using mineral-rich ingredients like calcium and phosphorus, homemade toothpaste can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. However, it’s important to remember that DIY toothpaste should complement, not replace, professional dental care. If you decide to make your own, ensure you use high-quality ingredients, follow the recipe closely, and consult with a dentist for personalized guidance. Combining DIY toothpaste with regular dental hygiene can lead to a healthier smile.

Does Coconut Oil Whiten Teeth? Expert Answers and Advice

Coconut oil has been gaining popularity as a natural remedy for various health conditions, including teeth whitening. But does coconut oil whiten teeth? In this article, we’ll explore the science behind coconut oil and its effectiveness as a teeth whitener, along with tips on how to use it and comparisons to other teeth whitening methods.

Does coconut oil whiten teeth?

The short answer is: probably not.

There is some limited evidence to suggest that coconut oil may have a beneficial effect on oral health, such as reducing plaque and gingivitis. However, there is no clear evidence that coconut oil whitens teeth.

One study, published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2015, found that oil pulling with coconut oil was effective in reducing plaque and gingivitis. However, the study did not measure the effect of oil pulling on teeth whitening.

Another study, published in the Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry in 2017, found that oil pulling with coconut oil was effective in reducing plaque and calculus formation. The study also found that oil pulling improved the color of teeth, but the results were not statistically significant.

In fact, coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria in the mouth can cause plaque buildup, which can lead to discoloration of the teeth. By reducing the amount of bacteria in the mouth, coconut oil may help prevent discoloration and contribute to overall oral health.

Overall, the evidence on whether coconut oil whitens teeth is mixed. More research is needed to determine whether oil pulling with coconut oil is an effective method for teeth whitening

How to Use Coconut Oil in oral care routine

Coconut oil can be a beneficial addition to your oral care routine due to its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s how to use coconut oil in your oral care routine:

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a traditional oral hygiene practice that involves swishing oil in your mouth to promote oral health. To do this with coconut oil:

  • Take a tablespoon of organic, unrefined coconut oil.
  • Swish the oil around your mouth for about 15-20 minutes. Be gentle, and avoid swallowing the oil.
  • Spit the oil into a trash can (not the sink, as it can clog pipes), and rinse your mouth with warm water.
  • Follow with your regular tooth brushing routine.

Toothpaste

You can make your own coconut oil toothpaste or purchase commercial toothpaste that contains coconut oil as one of its ingredients. To make a simple homemade toothpaste:

  • Mix 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
  • Add a few drops of peppermint or tea tree essential oil for flavor and added antibacterial properties.
  • Use this mixture as you would regular toothpaste.

Mouthwash

Coconut oil can be used as a mouthwash to help freshen breath and combat bacteria. To create a coconut oil mouthwash:

  • Mix 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil with warm water.
  • Swish the mixture in your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  • Spit it out and rinse your mouth with water.

Oil Blending

You can combine coconut oil with other oral care ingredients, such as baking soda or activated charcoal, to create a customized oral care product. These combinations can help with overall oral hygiene

How to whiten teeth at home

Whitening Toothpaste

Choose a toothpaste that is specifically formulated for teeth whitening. These toothpaste products often contain mild abrasives and peroxide to help remove surface stains.

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

Create a paste by mixing baking soda with hydrogen peroxide (3%). Brush your teeth with this paste gently for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Do this sparingly, as excessive use can damage enamel.

Activated Charcoal

Some people use activated charcoal powder to whiten teeth. Dip a wet toothbrush into the charcoal powder, brush for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Be cautious with charcoal, as it can be abrasive and should not be used daily.

Oil Pulling

As mentioned earlier, oil pulling with coconut oil can help remove bacteria and stains from teeth. Swish the oil in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes before spitting it out.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Gargling with a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar can help remove stains. However, use it sparingly, as its acidic and frequent use can erode tooth enamel.

Dietary Changes

Limit foods and beverages that can stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. Drinking through a straw can also minimize contact with teeth.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential for maintaining white teeth. Plaque buildup can contribute to staining, so keeping your teeth clean is crucial.

Professional At-Home Kits

Some dental professionals offer at-home whitening kits that are custom-made for your teeth. These kits typically include customized trays and a professional-grade whitening gel

Final Takeaway

Coconut oil has gained popularity in the oral care industry, but it falls short as an efficient teeth-whitening solution. However, if your primary focus is on maintaining a gentle and consistent oral care routine, incorporating coconut oil can still be a valuable addition if it encourages you to give your dental health the attention it deserves.