Ayurveda, India's traditional medical system, provides a holistic approach to health and wellness, including mouth care. "Neem," formally known as Azadirachta indica, is a popular Ayurvedic herb for improving dental health and whitening teeth. Neem has been utilised for millennia in Ayurvedic medicine because of its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Here's how using Neem in your oral care routine might help you get whiter teeth:
1. Natural Teeth Whitening
“Neem contains compounds like nimbolide, azadirachtin, and nimbidin, which have natural astringent properties that help remove stains and plaque from the teeth, leading to a brighter smile,” said Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar.
2. Antibacterial Action
According to Dr Chaudhary, neem has strong antibacterial properties that can help fight the bacteria responsible for plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath. Using Neem-based toothpaste or mouthwash can help keep harmful bacteria in check and promote overall oral hygiene.
Also read: Teeth Grinding In Sleep: Effective Strategies That Can Help You Stop
3. Anti-inflammatory Effects
“Inflammation in the gums can contribute to oral health problems and discoloration of teeth. Neem's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the gums, supporting gum health and contributing to a healthier oral environment,” said Dr Chaudhary.
4. Prevention of Dental Issues
“Regular use of Neem in oral care may help prevent common dental issues such as cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, which can affect the appearance of teeth. By maintaining oral health, Neem can indirectly contribute to whiter teeth,” Dr Chaudhary stated.
5. Fresh Breath
Neem's antibacterial properties not only help combat odor-causing bacteria but also leave the mouth feeling fresh and clean. This can contribute to fresher breath and a more pleasant oral environment.
Ways to Incorporate Neem into Your Oral Care Routine
Neem Toothpaste
“Look for toothpaste containing Neem extract or Neem oil as one of the main ingredients. Brushing your teeth with Neem toothpaste can help promote oral health and whiten teeth naturally,” said Dr Chaudhary.
Also read: Myth Buster: Popular Teeth Whitening Myths Debunked By Dental Expert
Neem Mouthwash
Rinse your mouth with a Neem-based mouthwash after brushing to further cleanse the mouth, kill bacteria, and freshen breath.
Neem Chewing Sticks (Miswak)
Chewing on Neem sticks or Miswak or Siwak, is a traditional practice in many cultures for oral hygiene. The natural fibers of Neem sticks help clean teeth, while the antibacterial properties of Neem promote oral health.
Neem Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in the mouth to improve oral health. Using Neem oil for oil pulling may help whiten teeth, reduce plaque, and support gum health.
While Neem is generally safe for oral use, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivity to Neem products. It's always a good idea to perform a patch test before using Neem products extensively.
Trying out neem can be an effective and natural way to achieve whiter teeth while promoting overall oral health. However, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups in conjunction with using Neem products for optimal results.