The DIY toothpaste game is tricky to understand. Making toothpaste involves more commitment than the average do-it-yourselfer is willing to put out. That’s perfectly fine! Avoid the struggle and whip up a batch of homemade tooth powder that will help improve gum health and naturally whiten your teeth.
People want their teeth to shine bright, but you have to use the right ingredients for that to happen. For the recipe in this article, we turn to ingredients with therapeutic benefits, as opposed to the chemical ingredients in commercial toothpastes. The only thing to keep in mind about this natural tooth powder is that you should not use it every single day, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums. The ingredients can be abrasive and rough for some people.
Activated Charcoal
As many of you know, charcoal works to remove toxins from the body. The body doesn’t digest it; rather, it passes through the gastrointestinal tract, binding to toxins so they get eliminated via bowel movements. When it comes to oral care, charcoal helps to change the pH balance in your mouth. Several studies found it to be effective at preventing cavities and improving the oral health of people with tooth decay and gingivitis. The slightly abrasive texture scrubs away stains and works to naturally whiten your teeth.
Bentonite Clay
Similar to activated charcoal, the negatively charged bentonite clay molecules work to remove toxins, bacteria, and other impurities from the body. It also contains minerals that work to remineralize tooth enamel. Bacteria can attack the surface of your teeth and break down enamel. Well, bentonite clay helps to rebuild this enamel, preventing tooth decay. It also works to neutralize excess acid in the mouth, raising the pH of your mouth so that bacteria have a harder time surviving.
Baking Soda
If you have stains from years of coffee drinking, it’s time to call on baking soda to come save the day. Baking soda is both alkaline and salty, making it great for acid-based food stains. Any coffee, red wine, soda, or tea stain does not stand a chance against baking soda. One thing to keep in mind about baking soda is that it is abrasive and should not be used on your teeth daily for that reason.
Homemade Tooth Powder
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons bentonite clay
- 1 tablespoon activated charcoal
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon xylitol
- 10-15 drops peppermint essential oil
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to a medium-sized mixing bowl and whisk to combine. Alternatively, you can add the ingredients to a food processor to get a perfectly even blend.
- Transfer the powder to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place.
- When you are ready to use this powder, whet your toothpaste and dip it into the powder. Brush for two minutes and then rinse well.
