One of the most popular tastes of the holiday season is peppermint. It’s often added to candy, coffee and chocolate for a refreshing twist on everyday treats. Peppermint has become that signature Christmas flavor, especially in candy canes, and the season just wouldn’t be the same without it!
Although there are dozens of recipes for homemade toothpaste, we came across a very simple version. Matt Jabs shared his quick and tasty toothpaste recipe on the DIY Natural website using just four easy-to-find ingredients:
- ⅔ cup baking soda
- 1 tsp fine sea salt (optional)
- 1-2 tsp peppermint extract or 10-15 drops peppermint essential oil (or your favorite flavor)
- Filtered water (mix to your preferred consistency)
- Store in a small container with lid.
Many of our patients ask what toothpaste is the “best” for them and often times our answer will depend on the history and risk factors of the person. Here are a few reasons why you might choose one over another:
Dry Mouth
When medications for naturally low salivary flow cause dry mouth, other dental problems usually follow suite. Xerostomia can be relieved with alcohol free products and glycerin based gels and pastes.
High Risk for Decay
Although we love the idea of all-natural toothpaste, long-term use won’t provide you with enough fluoride to protect the delicate root surfaces and filling edges that contain that extra mineral to ward of cavities. If you have multiple fillings, and also have habits that include drinking soda and eating candy that put you at risk for more decay, you might want to stick to a prescription fluoride toothpaste for good.
Whitening
Keeping your teeth extra clean will help maintain a naturally brighter smile, but if you are looking to improve your shade a few more levels, you want to find a whitening paste that uses ingredients geared towards that.
Sensitivity
Teeth that don’t tolerate sweets and temperature changes need special attention. Products with extra fluoride and/or potassium nitrate seem to help the best. Once you and your dental team find a system that works the best for you, a change might not be a great idea.
Having said that, share with us: what’s your favorite toothpaste? Do you think you will try this simple peppermint recipe? If you have any questions about which toothpaste might work best for you, or need to come in for a checkup, call Daxon Dentistry today!