To use neem for brushing, specifically with Neem toothpaste, apply a pea-sized amount to your toothbrush and brush your teeth thoroughly, preferably after meals. This is one of several ways neem is incorporated into dental hygiene practices.
Neem, derived from the Azadirachta indica tree, has been traditionally used for its perceived beneficial properties in oral health. When it comes to brushing, the most common and direct method using neem involves using toothpaste formulated with neem extracts.
Using Neem Toothpaste
Brushing with Neem toothpaste follows the standard procedure you would use with any other toothpaste.
Here are the simple steps:
- Get Your Brush Ready: Start with a clean toothbrush.
- Apply Toothpaste: Squeeze a small amount of Neem toothpaste onto the bristles. The recommended amount is typically a pea-sized amount.
- Begin Brushing: Place the toothbrush in your mouth and begin brushing your teeth.
- Brush Thoroughly: Brush all surfaces of your teeth – front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don't forget your tongue to help remove bacteria. Ensure you brush your teeth thoroughly.
- Timing: While you can brush anytime, it is often recommended to brush preferably after meals to help remove food particles and plaque buildup.
- Rinse: After brushing for about two minutes, spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
Using Neem toothpaste allows you to incorporate the properties of neem into your daily brushing routine easily.
Other Ways Neem is Used for Dental Care
Beyond toothpaste, neem is used in other forms for maintaining oral hygiene, as mentioned in the provided reference:
- Neem Mouthwash: Used for rinsing the mouth after brushing to further cleanse and freshen breath.
- Neem Oil Pulling: Involves swishing neem oil (often diluted or as part of a blend) in the mouth for a period before spitting it out.
- Neem Chewing Sticks: Traditionally, twigs from the neem tree were chewed. The act of chewing the fibrous twig helps clean the teeth, and the sap released contains neem compounds.
While brushing specifically refers to using a toothbrush, neem toothpaste is the direct application of neem in this method. Other forms like mouthwash or chewing sticks serve different, albeit related, functions in oral care.
