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| - Last Updated on July 24, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A Facebook video claims a homemade paste can instantly cure all kinds of dental problems. Our fact check reveals it’s False.
The Claim
As per a Facebook video, you can cure all kinds of dental problems by using a homemade paste. The video suggests making a paste containing ginger, tulsi, lemon, toothpaste, and baking soda. The woman in the video asserts that it can offer instant results and cure gum bleeding, gum pain, cavities, and yellowness.
Fact check
Is a homemade paste containing lemon and baking soda safe for teeth?
No, homemade paste containing lemon and baking soda are not exactly safe for teeth. The ingredients might have some good properties, but their final formulation and application lack strong scientific validation. Baking soda can be very abrasive in high concentrations and may lead to enamel damage with excessive use, causing sensitivity and other issues. The high acidity of lemons can erode enamel, leading to sensitivity and cavities.
Can ginger, tulsi, and lemon really cure all dental issues instantly?
No, this homemade paste cannot effectively treat or cure all kinds of dental problems. There is no scientific evidence supporting the claim that ginger, tulsi, and lemon can cure all dental issues, let alone instantly. These natural ingredients have certain health benefits. However, their effectiveness in treating dental problems is limited and not immediate.
- Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help reduce inflammation. But, it does not address the underlying causes of dental problems such as cavities or gum disease. An in-vitro study from 2011 indicates that ginger can reduce bacterial growth, but it’s not a comprehensive dental treatment.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi has antimicrobial properties which might help in reducing bacterial growth in the mouth. That being said, it is not a substitute for professional dental care.
- Lemon: The acidity in lemon can lead to tooth erosion and increased sensitivity over time. Its role in dental health is more preventive, helping to freshen breath rather than curing dental problems. Always rinse your mouth properly with regular water after consuming anything acidic like lemon.
We sought valuable insights from Dr Yogita Parmar, BDS, MPH, Max Healhcare, Saket, New Delhi, about the use of home remedies for solving dental problems. She says, “Using homemade pastes with abrasive ingredients like baking soda and acidic substances like lemon can significantly damage tooth enamel and cause sensitivity. These methods lack scientific support and can worsen dental issues rather than solve them. Professional dental care is essential for effective and safe treatment of dental problems.”
Dr Snigdha Upadhyay, BDS, MDS, Vananchal Dental College and Hospital, Garhwa, Jharkhand, also shared her expert opinion with us. She said, “Home remedies often lack scientific validation and can harm your teeth more than help. Baking soda’s abrasiveness and lemon’s acidity can erode enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities. It’s crucial to rely on professional dental treatments for any dental concerns.”
How effective are home remedies for curing dental issues compared to professional dental treatments?
Home remedies can offer temporary relief for minor dental problems but are not a substitute for professional dental care. Professional treatments are based on rigorous scientific research and address the root causes of dental issues. Home remedies often lack the precision and potency of professional treatments and can worsen problems if used incorrectly.
For example, cavities need professional filling to prevent further decay. Gingivitis, if untreated, can progress to periodontitis, a severe gum disease that requires professional intervention. Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and professional treatments are crucial for maintaining dental health.
What is the role of lemon in dental health, and can it cause tooth sensitivity?
Although lemon contains a large amount of vitamin C and has antibacterial properties, it can harm teeth if used improperly. Citric acid in lemon can erode tooth enamel, making teeth overly sensitive and more prone to cavities. The ADA warns against frequent application of acidic substances directly onto teeth. Lemons might freshen your breath and have a modest antibacterial effect, but their acidic nature makes them unsuitable for regular dental care.
What precautions should be taken when using DIY dental care products?
Remember, precautions should be taken when considering DIY dental care products. Here are some key points:
- Abrasive components: Ingredients like baking soda can wear down enamel over time due to their abrasive quality.
- Acidic components: Ingredients like lemon should be used sparingly to prevent enamel erosion.
- Consult a professional: Always discuss new home remedies with a dentist, especially if you have pre-existing dental conditions.
- Use as supplements: DIY remedies should complement, not replace, professional dental treatments and regular oral hygiene practices.
THIP Media Take
The claim that a homemade paste of ginger, tulsi, lemon, toothpaste, and baking soda can cure all dental problems instantly is misleading. Natural ingredients can help maintain oral health, but they cannot replace professional dental care. Using such remedies may cause more dental issues than they solve. We keep coming across viral posts which claim quick and miraculous results. For instance, the use of teeth whitening products can whiten teeth or not; unconventional combinations like Vaseline, coffee, and toothpaste mixture as teeth whitening miracle solutions, but their efficacy remains questionable. Similarly, a careful examination of the trend of using toothpaste mixed with cinnamon for whiter teeth reveals it is not true. Hence, it is important to rely on professional rather than viral claims from the internet.
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