Do you ever feel like your teeth are yelling “help me!”, but you’re not sure what to do? Well, it’s time to turn to some old-school remedies that your great-grandma would be proud of. We’re talking about salt and mustard oil, folks! These two ingredients may seem like an unlikely duo, but together, they pack a punch when it comes to keeping your teeth healthy and shiny. Let’s take a look at how to use salt and mustard oil for teeth.

What causes tooth decay?

Over time and with repeated use, the enamel on your teeth tends to deteriorate, so it’s crucial to take extra care of them. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and eating foods that maintain their strength and whiteness are some fundamental guidelines for maintaining good oral hygiene.

Apart from yellow teeth, tooth decay, bleeding, and swollen gums are also common oral health concerns. Some of the frequent reasons for teeth-related disorders include:

* High consumption of processed and sugary foods
* Poor oral hygiene and improper teeth cleaning
* Irregular dental cleanings and examinations
* Excessive tobacco use (chewing or in any other form)
* Drinking hard water

These are just a few causes, there can be more that can be attributed to poor oral health, and hence extra care is required.

How is salt and mustard oil effective for teeth?

Salt and mustard oil are two ingredients that have been used for centuries as a home remedy for teeth and gum care. “These two ingredients have been shown to provide various benefits, including the reduction of plaque, gum inflammation, and bleeding gums,” says Ayurvedic expert and consultant Dr Chaitali Deshmukh. The use of salt and mustard oil for oral health is rooted in Ayurvedic medicine. 

Dr Deshmukh explains that salt is a natural abrasive that helps to remove plaque and stains from the teeth. It also helps to neutralize the pH level in the mouth, reducing the growth of bacteria that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Additionally, salt is a rich source of fluoride, which helps to strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities.

Mustard oil, on the other hand, has antiseptic properties that help to kill bacteria in the mouth. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy gums. Massaging mustard oil onto the gums can help to increase blood circulation and reduce inflammation, making it an effective remedy for bleeding gums.

Dr Deshmukh advises that to further prevent gum bleeding, oil pulling with mustard oil can help to loosen the fat-soluble bacteria. By combining the two, you can somewhat reduce gum inflammation and control bleeding.

Also read: Is strawberry good for teeth whitening?

How to use salt and mustard oil for teeth?

To use salt and mustard oil for teeth, Dr Deshmukh suggests combining a small amount of mustard oil with a pinch of salt or rock salt, also known as sendha namak. If you put common salt in mustard oil, you may have to place it under the sun for around two to three hours to make it iodine-free. To the mixture of salt and mustard oil, you can also add a dash of turmeric. Using your index finger, massage this mixture on your gums and teeth. After massaging for at least two minutes, close your mouth for a while and rinse off with warm water. Use this concoction regularly after brushing.

However, in case of severe oral problems, it is advisable to consult a dentist and use this mixture under their supervision.