Neem in Dental Care: 6 Astonishing Benefits

Neem is a plant that has been traditionally valued in the treatment of inflammation, infections, fever, skin diseases, and dental problems. In short, it has been used for millennia as a traditional remedy for a multitude of human ailments.

The nimbidin and azadirachtin-rich composition of neem gives it powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it an effective agent against gum diseases and dental caries. Its versatility and accessibility have made it a staple, with many people using neem twigs as toothbrushes and adding neem powder to their oral care routines.

For centuries, it has been used by Indians to treat various diseases due to its medicinal properties. Neem is a fast-growing tree, said to grow almost anywhere in tropical lands and in natural conditions; we find it in India, Africa, and Indonesia.

What makes neem a natural toothbrush?

Neem twigs contain antiseptic ingredients necessary for dental hygiene. Neem powder is also used to brush the teeth and massage the gums. Neem extracts have been shown to prevent cavities and periodontal disease. Infections, cavities, bleeding, bacterial adhesion and gum pain have been successfully treated with the daily use of mouthwash or neem leaf extract. Below we will talk about its properties:

● Antibacterial

The antimicrobial effects of Neem have been demonstrated, especially dried neem chewing sticks that have shown maximum activity against S. mutans microorganisms, the ones that cause dental caries. Neem is consistently more effective at prohibiting bacterial growth and attacking cells grown in biofilms.

● Anti-inflammatory

Neem extract helps reduce pain and inflammation while it also accelerates healing, it provides benefits for mouth ulcers, canker sores, and other oral wounds. Additionally, neem’s natural pain-relieving properties help relieve toothaches and discomfort caused by oral infections.

● Analgesic

Neem oil has analgesic properties, acting almost like a natural pain reliever. It can relieve the discomfort of a toothache, providing fast relief.

Nemm plays an important role in oral health as it offers protection against the bacteria responsible for cavities and gum diseases. It reduces inflammation and pain, promoting the healing of injuries in the mouth. Its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it an ally in maintaining optimal oral hygiene.

The 6 main benefits of neem in dental care

Neem stands out in dental care for its extensive antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, offering a natural and effective solution to maintain oral health. It provides the following benefits:

1. Natural plaque removal and inhibition of plaque adhesion:

Neem interferes with the formation of biofilms thanks to its antibacterial action, by reducing the ability of bacteria to adhere to the teeth and preventing the formation of plaque. Neem extract, present in toothpastes and rinses, have proven to be effective in reducing the plaque index. Chewing neem twigs is a time-honored habit that helps eliminate harmful bacteria and promotes oral health.

2. Gum disease prevention:

Using neem when brushing your teeth after each meal along with neem mouthwash, or simply chewing neem twigs, has proven effective against periodontal pathogens, effectively reducing gingival inflammation and other periodontal conditions.

3. Teeth whitening:

We can attribute this benefit to the antiseptic and antimicrobial properties of neem that contribute to improving oral health; consequently, we can obtain cleaner and whiter teeth by eliminating bacteria and avoiding the accumulation of plaque.

4. Freshen your breath:

Neem mouthwash can be effective in maintaining fresh breath as it helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria.

5. Reduction of tooth decay:

Thanks to its antimicrobial activity against acidogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus salivarius, responsible for dental caries,eem extract in oral hygiene significantly reduces the incidence of cavities by inhibiting the growth of these bacteria, stifling the evolution of early cavities.

6. Fungus fighter:

Neem is not only good against bacteria, but also tough on fungi like Candida albicans, known to cause oral infections like thrush. Neem extract can effectively prevent and treat certain fungal diseases. The aqueous extract of neem leaves alters the ability of Candida albicans to remain in the mouth, making it a potent weapon in the battle for oral health.

Homemade dental care products with neem

An excellent way to take advantage of the natural benefits of neem in oral care is to avail yourself of homemade products. Below we explain how it may be used:

● How to make a toothbrush with neem twigs

● Choose a fresh neem twig, about 15-20 cm. Wash and peel 5 cm of bark from the end. Chew the peeled end until it forms bristles. Use this as a brush… no toothpaste required.

● Brushing your teeth with neem twigs, a traditional method in India, prevents gum disease and helps whiten teeth.

●  Prepare neem mouthwash at home

● Boil a teaspoon of neem leaves with baking soda in 500 ml. Let cool, strain and store the liquid in a bottle. Rinse your mouth with this liquid for 30 seconds after each meal.

● Boil neem leaves in water until it reduces to 1/4 of the original volume. Gargle with this concoction to freshen breath and whiten teeth by killing oral bacteria.

● Neem leaf paste for teeth whitening:

● Grind neem leaves to form a paste; add water if necessary. Apply this paste on your toothbrush and use it like a toothpaste.

● If you add a drop of neem oil to regular toothpaste, you will take advantage of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, preventing gum inflammation and cavities.

Chewing neem leaves prevents and removes plaque and tartar buildup, addressing the root causes of bad breath. The practice of these tips is indicated after each meal, taking into account that their use should always be consulted with a health professional.

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Precautions

Be careful with neem, especially in certain situations. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, people with autoimmune diseases or fertility problems, and people undergoing surgery should avoid neem.

We must keep in mind that long-term use of neem can cause damage to the liver and kidney. Plus, in children it may not be safe since it can cause everything from diarrhea to seizures, or even death.

With the use of neem, we find some allergic reactions, irritation of the skin and mucosa of the mouth, and stomach discomfort. Last but not least, the use of neem sticks does not provide adequate oral hygiene alone; therefore, consult your doctor/dentist before using it.