Coconut oil is one of those natural ingredients that's great for absolutely anything. Whether you're using it in the kitchen for a healthy alternative to olive oil, or as a part of your beauty routine for flawless skin, it's extremely versatile.
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Coconut oil to the rescue
It's also great for whitening and taking care of your teeth. In 2012, a team of researchers from the Athlone Institute of Technology in Ireland tested the effects of this oil on bacteria present in the mouth. It turns out that coconut oil helps to inhibit streptococcal strains. These are bacteria commonly found in the mouth which cause the teeth to deteriorate over time. The oil even has an effect on Streptococcus mutans, the most acidic bacteria present in the mouth.
Dr. Damien Brady, one of the authors of the work, said, "This modified coconut oil, incorporated into dental hygiene products, could be an attractive alternative to chemical additives, especially since it is effective at low concentrations."
Natural solutions
At home, you can use virgin coconut oil which is also very effective. To do this, you simply have to do daily mouthwashes. Take a small spoonful of coconut oil and pass the liquid through your mouth for 20 minutes. Do not swallow the oil but instead spit it out in a bin and NOT down your sink. Why? The coconut oil will turn solid at low temperatures and create deposits in the pipes.
Make your own toothpaste
If the idea of keeping oil in your mouth doesn't sound appealing to you then you can create your own toothpaste instead. To do this, mix 2 tablespoons of white clay with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Gently stir in a glass of coconut oil until smooth. After, add 2 or 3 drops of spearmint essential oil. Your teeth will very soon be beautifully white!
