Oral bacteria are often the main culprits of dental health problems. The bacteria expel acid as a byproduct of their digestion. This acid causes gum inflammation and dissolves the minerals in tooth enamel. Once tooth enamel is demineralized, decay results.  

Brushing and flossing help remove some of the bacteria from your mouth. However, there are other anti-microbial measures you can take. Here are a few ways to discourage the growth of oral bacteria:

Fluoride

Fluoride not only hardens tooth enamel; it has an anti-bacterial effect. When oral bacteria are exposed to fluoride, they become more sensitive to acid. As a result, they stop feeding and bacterial acid production ceases. In addition, once the bacteria stop feeding, their growth rates suffer.

Fluoride mouth rinses are available over-the-counter. In addition, if the water in your area is fluoridated, you can rinse throughout the day after meals and snacks.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains cinnamic aldehydes, which are anti-microbial. The spice can be sprinkled over food. However, you can also enjoy the benefits by chewing cinnamon gum. Some people even dip their toothbrush in the brown spice to use it as a homemade toothpaste. Still, you should use caution when using cinnamon as a paste. Concentrated use of the spice can be irritating to the sensitive tissues in your oral cavity.

Black tea

One way to discourage the multiplication of oral bacteria is to drink black tea. Tea, which is often consumed for taste, has been shown to have an anti-bacterial effect on oral microbes, such as Streptococcus mutans. 

To enjoy the benefits of tea, drink three or four cups daily. Black tea and green tea both exhibit anti-bacterial properties.

Turmeric

Turmeric, which gives mustard its bright yellow coloring, is also anti-bacterial. One study compared the impact of turmeric mouth rinse to that of chlorhexidine mouthwash on gingival health and dental plaque. The turmeric mouth rinse was simply a mixture of the spice and water, and its effects on plaque and gingival scores were comparable to those of the chlorhexidine rinse. 

An overgrowth of oral bacteria can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. If you are concerned about your oral health, consider additional measures as adjuncts to your regular brushing and flossing routine. Still, professional dental care is also important. You should be sure to visit your dentist at least twice a year. If you have not had an appointment within the last six months, schedule an appointment with a dentist (such as McMillin Jeff DDS) in your area as soon as possible.