When it comes to your oral health, you may already know how brushing and flossing are great ways to keep it strong. You might also have an inkling that some foods are better for your smile than others, but what about spices? There are certain ones you can use for your meals that help benefit your mouth. Keep reading to learn five herbs and spices that give a boost to your grin.
1.) Garlic
Although garlic is technically a bulb (like onions), it’s often used as if it’s a spice. You may love the flavor it brings to the food you make, but this tasty ingredient has medicinal properties that are great for your smile. It has antiviral and antifungal properties that can kill bad bacteria in your mouth and protect against infections. However, it can impact your breath, so be sure to brush afterward!
2.) Holy Basil
Also known as “hot basil,” this is a common addition that is used in Thai and Asian cuisine. It is a bit different from the basil you may be familiar with as it’s a spicy herb that has some natural astringent properties. This means it can fight against bacteria while also preventing cavities and bad breath. It can be a bit harder to source, but you may often find it in certain specialty shops.
3.) Rosemary
A great way to get calcium is with rosemary! You may not imagine this herb as a good source of this mineral, but it very much is. Just one tablespoon of dried rosemary has 4.2% of the recommended daily amount. To help keep your teeth and bones strong, add it to your favorite salad dressings and breads.
4.) Turmeric
Another tasty ingredient that can be helpful for your oral health is turmeric. There have been recent studies that have shown it has the same properties as mouthwash while potentially being a bit more effective! Not only that, but it can even reverse pre-cancerous conditions for oral cancer. While it does more good for your mouth the longer it sits, adding it to your recipes doesn’t hurt.
5.) Cinnamon
This ingredient offers a more indirect benefit for your teeth. Cinnamon might not do anything like the herbs above, but it can help regulate your blood sugar levels. It can also reduce your craving for sugar and carbohydrates. These two things feed the bacteria in your mouth, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Simply try to get at least half a teaspoon every day to get the most out of it. You might also want to find Ceylon cinnamon specifically. Like holy basil, it’s often found in specialty stores or even online.
About the Practice
Led by Dr. Kristin Petulla and Dr. Jennifer Kazemi, our dental office in Marlton is happy to help the community get their best smiles. We are proud to offer a wide range of services, such as checkups and cleanings. By using state-of-the-art technology and instruments, you enjoy much more comfortable treatments. If you want to learn how you can better care for your oral health, schedule an appointment or call our office at (856) 983-4846.