Healthy gums and strong teeth are essential elements of an attractive look and a healthybody. While most people are using traditional oral care products to achieve a whiter smile and healthier gums, there are awesome natural alternatives as well. You’ve probably heard of coconut oil’s benefits, baking soda or charcoal. However, now we’re talking about aloe vera.
Aloe vera is well known for its soothing skin and hair care benefits. But this plant has many other good benefits, which allow using aloe not just for your body. In fact, its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal option for dental health too.
1. It reduces bad oral bacteria
Aloe vera is able to kill certain bad bacteria, including those that live in your mouth. This plant may be helpful in treating cavities since it reduces the growth of bacteria called Streptococcus mutans. These bacteria are mostly responsible for tooth decay.
One study has shown that aloe vera toothpaste was more effective at managing bad bacteria than commercially popular toothpaste. It also includes bacteria that tend to cause tooth decay. But no study so far has looked directly at whether aloe vera can reverse dental cavities.
However, that doesn’t mean that aloe vera is not useful for dental hygiene. This plant possesses antibacterial properties and is rich in antioxidants, which may actually help prevent the development of gum disease, bad breath, or different types of inflammation.
2. It decreases gum inflammation
In most cases, gingivitis occurs due to improper dental hygiene. Many cases of gingivitis are mild. But if left untreated this issue can result in periodontitis (periodontal disease). Periodontitis damages nearby tissue or bone and often leads to tooth loss.
Aloe vera can be extremely helpful in fighting gum issues like early gingivitis. According to experts, using aloe vera can reduce gum recession as it can restore the texture of gum tissue. It has been proved by various studies that have shown that this plant is able to decrease gum inflammation (gingivitis). It is one of the signs of the early stage of gum disease. Moreover, in certain cases, aloe vera acted as chlorhexidine, which is a prescription mouthwash that kills bad mouth bacteria.
Also, these studies have shown that aloe vera is very effective at reducing plaque buildup on the teeth as well as chlorhexidine. However, aloe vera also had some side effects compared to chlorhexidine that can change tastes or staining of the teeth.
Anyway, in order to keep proper gum health, you always need professional help. If you suspect symptoms of periodontal disease like receding gums, the formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums, shifting teeth you should see a periodontist for an exam. Periodontitis may sometimes indicate hormonal imbalance, cancer, infections or other dangerous conditions. That’s why it’s wise to use aloe vera as an additional remedy for maintaining gum health and reducing inflammation.
3. It might be helpful in teeth whitening
Some blogs promote the use of aloe vera as a teeth whitening option, but there is limited evidence to prove this. Yes, various studies have proved that aloe vera can inhibit the growth of bad bacteria but more research on its effect on whitening teeth is still needed.
The plaque has a yellowish color that can make your teeth dull and lead to several dental issues such as tartar (calculus). Tartar is an accumulation of plague located behind and in between teeth and can reak havoc on your dental health. Aloe vera can help remove plaque and thus reduce tartar formation, which can help you keep your teeth whiter for a longer period of time.
