Using turmeric for teeth whitening is a growing trend in alternative herbal medicine. Humans have been using natural plant products for various purposes throughout history. These plants have co-evolved with animals, many of which have existed for billions of years.
Turmeric, a member of the ginger family, is one of many plants humans have used for different purposes. It gets its yellow color and medicinal properties from curcumin, one of its many compounds.
Despite its intense yellow color, many use it as a natural teeth whitening method. Let’s learn more about this root and how it whitens teeth.
Turmeric: How Is It Used?
Turmeric is a well-known plant with a long history of medicinal use, dating back almost 4000 years. It has been part of religious ceremonies and used in kitchens as a cooking spice in South and Southeast Asia. It is also known as Indian saffron due to its bright yellow color.
Modern medicine is beginning to recognize the benefits of turmeric, as evidenced by over 3000 publications produced in the past 25 years. Turmeric is versatile and is used in various ways, including: Also, Read More About – Zincovit Syrup
Herbal Medication
People sometimes use turmeric as a ginger substitute to cure sore throat and other illnesses related to the throat or the respiratory system. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat skin ailments and in modern alternative medicine as a supplement for immediate relief.
Cooking
Turmeric has been commonly used as a spice for thousands of years. It is a staple ingredient in different types of curry and South and Southeast Asian cuisine.
Turmeric for Teeth Whitening
While there are various teeth whitening methods you can try, like oil pulling or brushing with baking soda, turmeric has gained popularity as a DIY whitening option. However, according to the American Dental Association, scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of turmeric for teeth whitening is lacking.
Its yellow coloring may make you wonder if it can stain your teeth. According to dentists in Durango it won’t, as long as you practice proper oral hygiene after using it.
Turmeric and Its Other Uses in Dental Health
Ancient civilizations used medicinal herbs and spices to treat illnesses and maintain oral health before the invention of modern dental tools like water flossers, fluoride toothpaste, and sonic toothbrushes. Many early Asian cultures had turmeric in their arsenal of medical treatments, and it continues to be beneficial in modern oral care.
Using it for teeth whitening has recently become a popular trend in dental health. But aside from this, turmeric has other uses in oral care, like:
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Several studies have been conducted on the effects of turmeric in treating gingivitis and have found it to be effective in reducing inflammation. A study published in The Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research found that Curcuma gum gel effectively treats gum inflammation.
A study from M.A Rangoowala Dental College’s Department of Periodontology and Implantology has shown that curcumin’s anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties were similar to chlorhexidine. Even in its development stages, the science behind turmeric’s anti-inlammatory properties show potential for many periodontal patients.
Many dental institutions use turmeric to aid in gingivitis, especially after a cleaning procedure.
Plaque Control
Combining fluoride toothpaste with turmeric can provide additional anti-plaque benefits while promoting teeth whitening. Research from Bharati Vidyapeeth University’s Department of Periodontology found that curcumin mouthwash reduces plaque when used with proper brushing and flossing, reducing tooth decay.
Turmeric: How To Use It For Oral Health
You can incorporate turmeric into your oral hygiene routine for various benefits, such as preventing gum disease and plaque buildup. However, you should know that turmeric can turn your toothbrush’s bristles yellow and may leave a distinct taste in your mouth that you might not appreciate.
If you’ve got that down, here are a few ways you can incorporate turmeric into your oral care routine:
As a Mouthwash
To make the mouthwash, combine distilled water, cloves, and turmeric powder in a saucepan. Then bring it to a boil and let it infuse for 15-20 minutes. Strain, add peppermint oil, then store in a jar.
Use your turmeric mouthwash by swishing it in your mouth for a minute before spitting it out. Do this at least once a day for the best results.
As a Toothpaste
Create a thick paste by mixing turmeric powder with peppermint oil. Dip your toothbrush in the paste, brush as normal and let it sit on your teeth for 5 minutes before rinsing with warm water and brushing again with regular toothpaste.
Can Your Dentist Help?
Consulting a dentist is your best option if you’re looking to improve your teeth’s appearance and address yellowing or discoloration. They can provide a thorough cleaning that removes plaque and tartar buildup. They can also evaluate your teeth’s overall health and take preventative measures against tooth decay.
Always let your dentist know if you’re using any herbal products in your oral care routine; they can give you tips on using and integrating them into your daily regimen.
Key Takeaway
Turmeric has been part of cuisines and medical treatments for thousands of years. Even today, it’s a popular means of whitening teeth. You can use incorporate it into your regimen as toothpaste or mouthwash.
However, you should know that studies supporting its teeth-whitening properties are still lacking. Turmeric may also leave an unappealing taste in your mouth. Lastly, you should always let your dentist know if you’re using herbal products for your oral care regimen; they can teach you how to use them properly.
