If multiple problems were cited during your last dental appointment, there are things you can do to improve the outcome of your next visit. Protecting your oral health by brushing and flossing regularly is important, but there are additional precautions you can take to improve your oral health.

The health of your teeth and gums is largely dependent on the cleanliness of your mouth. Plaque, which contains food particles and oral bacteria, sticks to the surface of your teeth. The oral bacteria that fill plaque release acid as they digest food. This acid causes the minerals in your tooth enamel to dissolve and makes your teeth susceptible to decay. In addition, the acid can inflame your gums to promote gum disease. Here are a few ways to lessen the acid in your mouth. 

Rinse With A Baking Soda Solution

The acidity and alkalinity of a substance are based on its pH. Acids have a pH that is less than seven. However, baking soda has a pH of 8.3, which makes it alkaline. When an alkaline substance is mixed with an acid, the concentration of the acid is lessened through neutralization. 

Mix about a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water and rinse your mouth thoroughly before spitting. You can repeat this rinse several times throughout the day. Each time that you rinse, you make your mouth more alkaline.

Practice Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient practice that has recently had a resurgence in popularity. It involves swishing a healthy, edible oil, such as sesame oil or coconut oil, about your mouth for around 20 minutes before discarding it. It is important not to swallow the used oil; it will contain large numbers of oral bacteria.

As the oil is pulled through the spaces between your teeth and around the crevices of your mouth, it traps oral bacteria. The bacteria level in your mouth is reduced, and as a result, less acid is introduced into your mouth. 

Stop Drinking Sodas

Carbonated drinks are acidic and can demineralize teeth in a manner similar to the acid released by oral bacteria. If you are accustomed to drinking sodas throughout the day, opt for water or black tea instead. Most tap water is fluoridated, and fluoride has been found to increase the acid sensitivity of oral bacteria, which disables them from feeding and releasing more acid. In addition, black tea has been found to have anti-microbial properties that lessen the number of decay-causing bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans in the mouth. 

There are multiple ways to reduce the amount of acid in your mouth and improve your oral health. To monitor your dental progress, be sure to visit your dentist regularly. Consider the professionals at Carpenter Dental, Charles M. Carpenter DMD, and Chas M. Carpenter DMD, for all your dental needs.