Dental hygiene is important for a number of reasons. Aside from overall health, it is vital to prevent cavities and decay in teeth. Usually, as long as brushing and flossing is consistent along with regular cleanings at the dentist, our teeth and gums will remain healthy. Sometimes, however, it is a little more difficult than that. The good news is that there are additional steps that can be taken to help prevent cavities. There are also natural remedies that can aid in keeping teeth and gums healthy. Here are three of the best natural ways to prevent cavities.

Tea Tree Oil

Rinsing with this essential oil can be very beneficial for oral health. This oil has natural anti-bacterial properties and it can be used as a mouth rinse twice a day. Although many essential oils have been tested to fight against oral pathogens, it has been found that tea tree oil in particular has a significant ability to inhibit the adhesion of bacteria such as gingivitis. It has also shown strong antibacterial abilities against cariogenic and periodontopathic bacteria. Tea tree oil is safe and gentle on the cells lining the mouth.

Brush First Thing in the Morning

As you are sleeping through the night, bacteria is building up in your mouth. Brushing your teeth first thing in the morning will help destroy sticky plaque. Especially if you enjoy orange juice, coffee, or other beverages that are high in acid when you wake up, brushing your teeth prior to eating can help to better protect your dental health. Acidic drinks and foods weaken the enamel on the teeth for a minimum of an hour after they’re consumed. This means that brushing shortly after eating or drinking these foods can actually cause enamel to weaken, causing permanent damage. Dental clinics recommends using a non-fluoride toothpaste for children who are under the age of 2.

Use a Straw

Carbonated drinks, even just sparkling water, can weaken the enamel. A study that was done in 2007 found that even sugar-free flavored sparkling waters can potentially be erosive due to their acidic properties. When using a straw, the beverages bypass the teeth and go right down the throat. This helps to keep teeth protected from the acidity.

The prevention of cavities is very important because once a cavity has appeared, it will not heal itself. We want to keep our teeth healthy for as long as possible and using natural remedies is a safe and effective way to do so.