Are there alternative treatments for oral health?

The best thing you can do for your oral health is to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes and to floss daily. You should also have your teeth examined regularly by a dentist and make sure to eat a balanced diet. That's the only way to ensure good dental health. 

Some forms of "alternative" or "complementary" medicine may be effective for oral health problems.  Recent studies, for instance, show that some people who suffer from chronic dry mouth may get relief from acupuncture, the ancient Chinese therapy that involves the careful placement of tiny needles in the skin. On the other hand, many other forms of alternative therapies offered for treatment of oral health conditions lack solid evidence that they really work. Never use nontraditional medicine to self-treat any health condition. Always talk to your doctor or dentist first.

There are no alternative treatments that have been proven effective for use in oral healthcare. Correct brushing and flossing techniques are the best way to maintain your oral heath. Regular dental cleanings (usually bi-yearly, or as recommended by your dentist) are an important way to prevent oral health problems or diagnose them early when they do occur. Additionally, fluoride is used to strengthen teeth and prevent decay, but you might not know that you ingest it. For more than fifty years, the American Dental Association has recommended the addition of fluoride to the drinking water of most communities, and it is likely your town is included.