The history of salt in oral care
Did you know that salt has a very long history in oral care? Sweet and mint-based toothpastes have only been popular since the early 20th century, while historians have documented salt toothpaste as early as 5000 BC in Egypt. The Egyptians brushed their teeth with a toothpaste mixture of salt, herbs, beeswax, iris flowers and pepper. The ancient Chinese also used toothpaste with salt, additional ingredients such as ginseng and a mixture of herbs.
Benefits of salt in oral care
Salt is a gentle abrasive
Salt and baking soda, which is another type of salt, act as a mild abrasive that helps remove plaque and stains from teeth and prevent cavities.
Salt stimulates saliva production
Saliva is a very important part of overall health, especially when it comes to digestion and dental care. Saliva contains several minerals (phosphorus and calcium) that help strengthen tooth enamel. The increased amount of saliva can help protect teeth from acids and bacteria that cause tooth decay, thanks to saliva's cleansing properties and pH-balancing effect.
Sea salt is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
Studies have shown that saline solutions can have a mild antimicrobial effect. This could potentially help reduce bacteria in the mouth that can cause bad breath and gum problems. Salt can help relieve irritation in the mouth and throat. It can be useful for reducing the discomfort of minor mouth sores or irritated gums. Using sea salt in toothpaste tablets can increase saliva production. Saliva is important for maintaining a healthy pH balance in the mouth.
Sea salt is rich in trace minerals
Sea salt contains around 60 trace minerals. Trace minerals are micronutrients that, like vitamins, are essential for optimal health. Due to nutrient depletion in soils, it is becoming increasingly difficult to get enough trace minerals from our diet.
Sea salt can reduce acidity: balance the pH value
One of the most distinctive properties of sea salt is its alkaline properties. Acid is the main cause of cavities because it breaks down enamel and weakens teeth. Oral care products formulated with sea salt will neutralize the environment in the mouth where acid-producing bacteria thrive.
