Sodium bicarbonate (commonly known as baking soda) polishes the teeth and eliminates bad breath eliminating acids and creating an alkaline pH. Another great advantage is that it is relatively inexpensive. [2] X Research source Salt acts as an abrasive that helps remove plaque. It also causes you to salivate, and saliva is nature’s method of protecting teeth. [3] X Research source It also provides minerals that help protect your enamel, and this effect is increased when combined with baking soda. The essential oil is for taste. The water is for consistency.
This can be accomplished using a fork or whisk, which will help break up any clumps of salt. Leaving big clumps of sea salt can be harmful when brushing, so make sure to mix everything together until it is the same consistency.
Other essential oils commonly used include: lavender, which has shown to provide calming effects when used orally; orange, which has also been shown to reduce anxiety; and eucalyptus, which has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source [7] X Research source These are all also used in dentistry for similar effects.
Coconut oil is believed to be effective against fighting a big cause of tooth decay, Streptococcus mutans, which is a bacterium that lives on sugar and also clings to teeth creating cavities. [10] X Research source Coconut oil is supposed to pull all the bacteria away from your teeth, similar to how mouthwash works. Stevia is a natural sweetener that comes from a plant of the same name. It has antibacterial properties that are believed to fight against tooth decay. [11] X Research source
Be aware that this is a powder, not a paste. If you prefer a paste, choose one of the other recipes, or add a bit of filtered water to the powder. However, also understand that in terms of effectiveness, there is no difference between them. A part can mean whatever amount you want it to mean, what is important is the ratio. For example, if you use 3 tablespoons of baking soda, you will then use 1 tablespoon of salt. If you use 6 tablespoons of baking soda, you will use 2 tablespoons of salt for an increased whitening effect. For a better taste, you can also add a few drops of lemon juice.
The shaking method may be better for making sure the two ingredients are well mixed.
Experiment with and without water to see which method you prefer.
