21 Day Fix: 9 Ways to Detox your mouth

1.      Scaling “Cleaning” within one week of starting the detox

Rationale: Oral bacteria starts developing on the teeth within 5 minutes after brushing or having a professional cleaning. After 24 hours the immune system is alarmed and ready to fight the bacteria through inflammation of the gums. Even a small amount of inflammation can affect the results of the detox. Best practice is to have a thorough debridement (cleaning of the mouth) with a highly skilled dental professional to ensure oral cavity is free from deposit and bacteria.

2.      Proper Toothbrush/Technique “Curaprox”

Rationale: For the purpose of this detox we would like to ensure everyone is utilizing the same style of toothbrush and technique. Curaprox is a swiss made toothbrush made from Curen filaments, an anti-bacterial resistant type of bristle that repels water, which in turn creates minimal to no bacterial growth. These toothbrushes can last up to one year depending on use. Technique: Small circular movements, starting on the back side of the molars and moving forward, until all surfaces are complete. Time/frequency: This method should be completed after every meal for maximum benefit take approx. 4 minutes

http://curaprox.ca/en/products/toothbrushes/sensitive-cs5460-toothbrush.html

3.     Tongue cleaning

Rationale: The tongue papillae (taste buds) can often times collect bacteria similar to the teeth. You may notice a thick coat of white, brown or even black on the top surface of your tongue. Without proper removal halitosis (bad breathe) can occur. This can be completed with a tongue brush, specifically designed to remove oral bacteria from the tongue or your regular tooth brush.

Time/frequency: once daily

http://www.gumbrand.com/accessories/gum-tongue-cleaner/gum-dual-action-tongue-cleaner-760rb.html

4.     Gingival massage

Rationale: Gum tissue needs stimulation the same way our muscles often times need to be massaged. The best practice is to use a sulcabrush (Canadian made). Massage the gum tissue in a back and forth or circular motion. This can be completed with no toothpaste or rinse and is best utilized while reading, watching tv or on the computer. Time/frequency: 5 minutes 1x daily (if this is something you are able to incorporate easily, you can cut back on the length of time spent toothbrushing)

http://www.sulcabrush.com/default_1.aspx

5.      Interproximal cleaning (between teeth)

Rationale: Bacteria can hide on all areas around and in between teeth. Often times gums disease starts from improper cleaning between the surfaces of the teeth. This technique can be accomplished through flossing or interdental aids (brushes, stimudents)

https://www.curaprox.com/ee-et/interdental-brushes

6.     Toothpaste (Remin)

Rationale: The proper toothpaste is extremely important is preventing oral diseases. Many natural toothpastes are available through natural health food stores. However; the main ingredient missing from many of these products is an ingredient that builds/repairs damaged tooth enamel. When the teeth/root structure is damaged the teeth become porous with allows for bacteria growth causing cavities and gum disease. Remin by Oral Science is like no other toothpaste on the market. It contains no fluoride, no SLS, has a mild mint flavour, contains Xylitol, and most importantly builds/repairs tooth enamel with the use of calcium and phosphorus. Two natural minerals used to produce enamel.

http://www.oralscience.ca/en/products/remin.html

7.     Rinsing with coconut oil

Rationale: Oil pulling helps dislodge and remove bacteria and toxins from the gums and surrounding tissues and teeth. Rinsing with coconut oil can reduce the amount of bacteria and reduce inflammation in the mouth. The action of “oil pulling” is thought to reduce toxins throughout the body. Time/frequency: once daily for 15-20 minutes

http://www.holistic-healing-information.com/oil-pulling.html

8.      Xylitol gums/mints

Rationale: The use of xylitol in oral health care has been around for years. Occurring naturally in birch wood and corn cobs, xylitol has the ability to kill oral bacteria and neutralize the pH. Creating an environment in which bacteria can’t grow and thrive. This natural sweetener can be found in gum, mints, toothpaste, rinses, foods and sugar substitutes. It is Gluten free, sugar free, stimulates saliva, reduces cavities and inflammation and is an excellent resource for diabetics.

http://www.oralscience.ca/en/products/gums_mints.html

9.      Nutrition

Rationale: What we put into our body also effects our oral cavity. Limit your simple sugar and carbohydrate intake. Stay away from sticky and starchy foods. Minimize your fruit intake and increase vegetables and leafy greens. Powdered or liquid greens is often and excellent resource for neutralizing the oral cavity through digestion.

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition

Compiled and written by Karyn Steinhoff R.D.H.