Turmeric teeth whitening is the latest trend in herbal medications used as an alternative to popular brands. Since human history began, natural plant products have been used for many purposes. These natural products have evolved with animal life, and many of the plants they are derived from are billions of years old.
Turmeric is one such plant that has been harvested for different uses. It contains curcumin, which gives it its yellow color and medicinal properties. It is also a member of the ginger family and can be found in nature as a root.
Common Uses of Turmeric
Turmeric is a well-known plant with a long history of medicinal use dating back almost 4000 years. It’s used in South and Southeast Asia in religious ceremonies and as a cooking spice. The plant is often called “Indian saffron” because of its bright yellow color.
Turmeric benefits many people, and modern medicine is beginning to recognize it, evidenced by over 3000 publications published in the past 25 years. In modern times, turmeric has proven to be quite versatile; many people use it in:
Cooking
Turmeric has been commonly used as a spice in many cultures for thousands of years. Even today, it’s a common ingredient in different types of curry and is a staple for South and Southeast Asian cuisine.
Herbal Medication
Herbal medication is another popular turmeric use. Sometimes, people use turmeric as a substitute for ginger to cure sore throat and other illnesses related to the throat or the respiratory system.
Traditional medicine also uses turmeric for skin ailments. Meanwhile, modern alternative medicines also use these turmeric benefits in supplements that aim to provide immediate relief.
Turmeric is also highly used to soothe inflammation of internal tissues and as a pain reliever.
Turmeric for Dental Health
Many early civilizations used medicinal herbs and spices to treat their ailments and care for their teeth long before the advent of water flossers, fluoride toothpaste, and sonic toothbrushes. Turmeric was among the spices used for medicinal purposes in early Asian cultures, and it is still helpful in modern oral care. In recent years, turmeric teeth whitening has become a trend in dental health.
Aside from whitening teeth, here are other ways turmeric has been used for oral health:
Anti-inflammatory
There have been numerous studies on the effects of turmeric in treating gingivitis that found it to be effective in reducing inflammation. In a study published in The Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research, it was found that Curcuma gum gel is effective in treating gingival inflammation.
Another study by the Department of Periodontology and Implantology at M.A Rangoowala Dental College revealed that curcumin was comparable to chlorhexidine in its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties for periodontal patients. Although the science behind turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties is still in its infancy, it looks promising.
Other dental institutions use turmeric to help aid in gingivitis, especially after a cleaning procedure.
Plaque Control
Research suggests that turmeric could be used to reduce plaque buildup and tooth decay. The Department of Periodontology of the Bharati Vidyapeeth University found that curcumin mouthwash reduces plaque if used with proper brushing and flossing.
You can use fluoride toothpaste with turmeric to get additional anti-plaque benefits. It’s also the best choice for protection against plaque and promotes teeth whitening.
Does Turmeric Help Whiten Teeth?
There are many methods for teeth whitening that you can find online or in magazines. These include oil pulling, charcoal, and, the most popular, turmeric teeth whitening. DIY whitening is a popular choice, but how effective is turmeric teeth whitening?
Does turmeric stain teeth? No, as long as you brush your teeth properly after using it.
According to the American Dental Association, there is not enough scientific evidence that supports the claim that turmeric can help whiten teeth.
How to Utilize Turmeric for Dental Health
There are many ways to add turmeric for teeth whitening to your oral routine. To prevent gum disease and plaque buildup, you can make your own toothpaste or mouthwash from turmeric.
Before you start, you should first take note of two things: (1) Turmeric can have a distinct taste that may not suit everyone, and (2) adding it into your brushing routine may cause your toothbrush bristles to turn yellow.
Turmeric Toothpaste
You can make turmeric toothpaste by turning it into a thick paste. You can add peppermint for a minty taste; it’s safe to consume in small quantities and is commonly found in toothpaste brands. Like turmeric, it also relieves pain and swelling. It can also be used to combat bad breath.
To use turmeric for teeth whitening as a toothpaste, dip your toothbrush bristles in water and brush your teeth as you normally would, and then let it rest on your teeth for five minutes.
Rinse your mouth with warm water, and then brush your teeth with regular toothpaste to remove any remaining turmeric powder.
Turmeric Mouthwash
To make mouthwash using turmeric for teeth whitening, you need distilled water, cloves, and turmeric powder. Combine the ingredients in a saucepan and bring them to a boil. Allow the ingredients to infuse for at least 15-20 minutes on low heat. Strain, add peppermint oil, then keep it in a jar.
Swish your turmeric mouthwash inside your mouth for a minute, then spit it out. This turmeric teeth whitening practice should be done at least once a day to maintain healthy gums and fresh breath.
What Your Dentist Can Do For You
If you see yellowing or discoloration in your teeth and want to restore them to their whiteness, it is best to consult a dentist. They can clean your mouth thoroughly, removing the plaque buildup and tartar.
Aside from cleaning, your dentist will also check if your teeth are in good condition and prevent tooth decay.
Tell your dentists if you plan to use herbal products in your oral routine. They can suggest the correct ways to use or incorporate these products into your daily regimen.
Visit Sunrise Dentistry for a Thorough Teeth Cleaning
Are you looking for dentists in Pagosa Springs, CO? Sunrise Dentistry can help with any oral problem, including tooth decay or halitosis. Our highly skilled team will provide you with the best possible care for your teeth. For holistic oral care, book a session today with us.
