Learning About The World Of Dentistry

If you're like most people, keeping your teeth bright and healthy between dental visits is important to you. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is an excellent way to maintain healthy teeth and gums, but there is more you can do to naturally whiten your teeth between professional cleanings and treatments at the dentist office. For example, making your own strawberry recipes to use in addition to regular brushing and flossing is a surefire way to brighten your smile. Strawberries are full of astringents that help remove surface stains. The vitamin C in strawberries also works to naturally brighten teeth by clearing plaque away. Here are three strawberry recipes you can start making at home today:

Berry Whitening Toothpaste

This toothpaste is easy to make and will stay fresh in your fridge for about a week between uses. If you have children, ask for their help when making a batch to help interest them in taking care of their teeth. You can use this toothpaste in place of your commercial brand, or incorporate it into your weekly schedule as a supplemental dental care practice. Here's what you need to make a batch:

• 4 strawberries, thawed if frozen

• 4 tbsp fresh water

• 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide

• 1 tsp baking soda

Put your strawberries in a small reusable container and use a fork to break them up until they become mushy. Add the rest of the ingredients to the container and stir the concoction until it turns into a pink paste. Just dip your toothpaste into the container when you're ready to use it. If you plan to share the paste with others in your household, you can use a small spoon to transfer the paste to your toothbrush.

Peppermint Berry Mouthwash

In addition to the whitening power of strawberries in this mouthwash recipe, peppermint essential oil is added to kill anaerobic bacteria and minimize your chance of developing gum disease. This peppermint berry mouthwash tastes great and can be kept on the counter next to your sink between uses. You'll need the following ingredients to make a bottle:

• 2 cups fresh water

• 3 strawberries

• 15 drops peppermint essential oil

• 2 tbsp hydrogen peroxide

• Cheesecloth or a nut milk bag

• 1 mason jar

Place the strawberries and 1 cup of water in your blender and mix on medium setting until the strawberries liquefy and the concoction turns into juice. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or nut milk bag into a mason jar and add the rest of the ingredients. Put a lid on the mason jar and shake it vigorously to thoroughly combine the ingredients. When you are ready to use the mouthwash, just take a sip and gargle for a few seconds before spitting it out and rinsing your mouth with fresh water.

Tropical Strawberry Smoothie

What better way to start the day then with a tasty teeth-whitening smoothie? This tropical strawberry smoothie takes just minutes to make, is filling, and the leftovers can be put in the freezer to make a frozen treat for dessert. Here is what you'll need to make enough smoothie for two people:

• 6 strawberries

• 2 bananas

• 1 cup pineapple chunks

• 1 cup coconut milk

• 1 cup ice cubes

Place all of the ingredients except the ice cubes in your blender and mix on the high setting until smooth and well combined. Add the ice cubes and mix on the medium setting until the ice breaks up into tiny chunks. Pour into two large glasses and serve!

With these recipes on your side, it should be easy to maintain a bright and healthy smile between your professional dental treatments. For more tips on how to care for your teeth, contact a dental office like Apollo Dental Center.