Tea tree toothpaste is an oral cleaning agent made with tea tree oil and useful for cleaning teeth as well as controlling bad breath. As a natural toothpaste that may also prevent or lessen the impact of periodontal disease, tea tree toothpaste is often recommended by natural health enthusiasts for good oral hygiene. Toothpaste containing tea tree oil is mass produced by certain manufacturers and, therefore, can be purchased through retail outlets, or it may be homemade.
Baking soda, which is often used to clean and whiten teeth, as well as mint oil, which adds a fresh scent, are popular ingredients sometimes added to tea tree toothpaste to increase its effectiveness. Tea tree oil, however, is the primary ingredient in a quality tea tree toothpaste, as it contains antibacterial and antiseptic properties. As tea tree oil also helps fight mouth and gum inflammation, it is often recommended for use by individuals suffering from gingivitis.
In addition to acting as a mouth cleanser, tea tree toothpaste may eliminate many of the germs contained in the mouth that contribute to foul-smelling breath. Tea tree oil is also included in certain mouthwash products for this same reason. Mouthwash made of tea tree oil can be purchased from a retail vendor or can be homemade.
Herbal and organic toothpaste products are deemed by health experts to be safe for everyday use. Certain scientific studies support the claims that toothpastes containing tea tree oil are effective in cleansing the mouth, reducing inflammation and protecting the teeth and gums from many bacteria and germs which may contribute to tooth decay and periodontal disease. As it also has antifungal properties, tea tree oil is useful in treating candidiasis, which is sometimes found in the mouth.
While quality tea tree toothpaste products can be purchased in a number of mainstream retail stores, online vendors and health food stores, some people prefer to make their own homemade toothpaste containing tea tree oil and other natural ingredients, instead. Recipes and instructions on how to do so can be found in printed books as well as on certain websites offering advice and instruction on natural health care. Some individuals even specialize in making homemade tea tree toothpaste, mouthwash and other natural products to sell to other people through their own small business ventures and at craft shows.