Herbs as Plaque Removal Tools

Plaque is biofilm, a collection of bacterial micro-organisms that grow naturally on teeth. This growth is accelerated, however, by some of the foods we eat. Once plaque hardens, it begins to wear down the teeth to which it is attached. Even worse, it's much more difficult to remove once hard. Thankfully there are many herbs that soften plaque or slow its growth, and when they're combined with a daily teeth-cleaning regimen, they can help ensure strong, healthy teeth.

Green Tea

• One of the most commonly available herbal remedies for plaque build-up is green tea. In addition to a healthy dose of antioxidants, green tea also contains fluoride and other substances that inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Replacing your cup of coffee or black tea with green tea, or even using it as a mouth rinse, will help hinder plaque from forming.

Bloodroot

• Sanguinaria canadensis, or bloodroot, is a wildflower that blooms in the spring and receives its name from its orange-red sap. When used as part of a dental cleaning regimen, bloodroot binds itself to plaque, softening it and discouraging it from hardening on the smooth surface of your teeth. As a result of this plaque-fighting characteristic, bloodroot also helps prevent gum disease.

Bay Leaves

• Featuring in the cuisine of many cultures, bay leaves impart a deep, savory aroma to food, and they also have antiseptic properties. This is because bay leaves are full of volatile oils, 50 percent of which is cineole, a powerful bactericidal and fungicidal oil. Bay is an ingredient is some toothpastes, and when the leaves are eaten fresh, they may aid in preventing plaque build up.