Last updated: Apr 20, 2024
10 best herbal teas for tooth decay
Certain herbal teas, including chamomile and sage, boast antibacterial properties that combat the bacteria causing tooth decay.
These teas, when consumed regularly, help maintain oral health by reducing plaque buildup and inflammation. Furthermore, the antioxidants found in green tea inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a significant contributor to tooth decay.
By incorporating these herbal teas into a daily routine, individuals can promote a healthy and decay-free smile.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile tea possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as demonstrated in various scientific studies.
Its active components, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation in the oral cavity. By sipping chamomile tea, you introduce these beneficial compounds into your mouth, helping to maintain a healthy balance of oral flora and potentially reducing the risk of tooth decay. Moreover, chamomile tea's astringent qualities can help tighten gum tissues, preventing the formation of pockets where bacteria can thrive.
Lastly, the soothing effects of chamomile tea can alleviate mouth sores and other minor oral irritations that may arise from tooth decay or other oral health issues.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with tooth decay.
- Flowers: Contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gums.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids that have antimicrobial properties, helping to kill bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Seeds: Contain natural oils that can help soothe pain and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
- Stems: Have astringent properties that can help reduce gum bleeding and promote oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that inhibits the growth of bacteria causing tooth decay.
- Chamazulene: A terpene with anti-inflammatory properties that reduce gum inflammation.
- Matricin: A precursor to chamazulene, with antispasmodic properties that alleviate toothache.
- Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol that promotes wound healing and reduces pain in mouth sores.
- Flavonoids: A class of antioxidants that prevent the degradation of gums and teeth.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for tooth decay.
- Boil 1 cup of water, then add 1 teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers, letting it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the flowers, discarding the solid remains.
- Add 1 teaspoon of raw honey to the chamomile tea, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Allow the honey-chamomile mixture to cool down to a comfortable drinking temperature.
- Sip the tea slowly, swishing it around your mouth for 30 seconds before swallowing, for 2-3 times per day.
2. Sage
Sage tea contains antibacterial and antioxidant properties due to its high content of essential oils, such as thujone, camphor, and eucalyptol.
These compounds inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay. Furthermore, sage tea fights inflammation, promoting gum health and decreasing the chances of gum disease, a common cause of tooth loss.
The astringent properties of sage firm and tighten gum tissues, preventing loose teeth. Additionally, sage tea neutralizes odor-causing bacteria, providing fresh breath.
Regular consumption of sage tea supports dental health, contributing to overall well-being.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in sage tea that help with tooth decay.
- Roots: Contain active compounds that inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a major cause of tooth decay.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antibacterial properties, helping to prevent tooth decay.
- Bark: Contains tannins that have astringent properties, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent tooth decay.
- Flowers: Contain volatile oils that have antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Seeds: Rich in essential oils that have antiseptic properties, helping to prevent tooth decay and protect oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds reduce inflammation, helping to protect against gum disease and tooth decay.
- Phenolic acids: Exhibiting antibacterial properties, phenolic acids help inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Eugenol: A potent antiseptic, eugenol helps kill harmful oral bacteria, preventing tooth decay and gum diseases.
- Tannins: Known for their astringent properties, tannins help reduce oral bacteria, protect tooth enamel, and alleviate pain from tooth sensitivity.
- Rosmarinic acid: An anti-inflammatory compound, rosmarinic acid helps reduce inflammation and provides pain relief for tooth and gum issues.
- Carnosic acid: Acting as an antimicrobial, carnosic acid inhibits the growth of oral bacteria, thereby protecting against tooth decay.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage tea for tooth decay.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh sage leaves and rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot for 3-5 minutes, then add the sage leaves and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid to remove the sage leaves, leaving you with sage tea.
- Let the tea cool down to room temperature or slightly warm before drinking.
- Consume 1 cup of sage tea, 2-3 times a day, after meals, for best results in maintaining oral health.
3. Peppermint
Peppermint tea combats tooth decay due to its natural antimicrobial properties, which reduce the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
This herbal tea's high flavonoid content further strengthens teeth by preventing plaque buildup. Additionally, peppermint tea stimulates saliva production, naturally washing away harmful acids and food particles. Its anti-inflammatory properties also soothe irritated gums, promoting overall oral health.
Consequently, regular consumption of peppermint tea helps protect teeth from decay.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with tooth decay.
- Leaves: Contain antimicrobial compounds that help reduce cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that promote oral health and help prevent inflammation.
- Buds: High in essential oils known to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium responsible for tooth decay.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Menthol: Possesses antiseptic properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria causing tooth decay.
- Limonene: Exhibits antibacterial effects, reducing cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Rosmarinic acid: Displays antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Flavonoids: Contribute to oral health by inhibiting bacterial enzymes that cause tooth decay.
- Tannins: Known for their astringent properties, tannins help reduce bacteria and protect tooth enamel.
- Eugenol: Exhibits antimicrobial and analgesic effects, protecting against harmful bacteria and reducing pain.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for tooth decay.
- In a teapot, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to extract.
- Strain the tea to remove the spent peppermint leaves, creating a clear liquid.
- Optionally, add a drop of liquid stevia for added sweetness without promoting tooth decay.
- Consume the tea while warm, up to three times a day after meals, for its antibacterial benefits.
4. Clove
Clove tea contains eugenol, a natural compound with potent antimicrobial properties.
This compound inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium primarily responsible for tooth decay. Furthermore, eugenol offers remarkable analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, alleviating oral discomfort often associated with dental caries. By sipping clove tea, you introduce tannins, which act as astringents, helping to reduce gum inflammation and improve overall oral health.
Regular consumption of clove tea fosters a healthy oral environment, diminishing the risk of tooth decay.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in clove tea that help with tooth decay.
- Roots: Contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds that help reduce bacteria causing tooth decay.
- Buds: Rich in eugenol, a potent antioxidant with analgesic and antibacterial properties, supporting oral health.
- Flowers: Packed with antioxidants and essential oils, they may reduce inflammation and prevent dental diseases.
- Seeds: Contain oil with powerful antiseptic properties, used traditionally to treat toothaches and oral infections.
- Bark: Has tannins, which exhibit astringent and anti-inflammatory effects beneficial for treating gum diseases and dental issues.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in clove tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Eugenol: A potent antimicrobial agent that inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
- Gallic acid: A compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce gum inflammation caused by tooth decay.
- Oleanolic acid: A triterpene that helps prevent the formation of biofilm, a key factor in the development of tooth decay.
- Maslinic acid: A pentacyclic triterpene that exhibits antibacterial properties, reducing the bacterial load in the mouth.
- Kaempferol: A flavonoid that possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping protect gums and teeth from oxidative damage and inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic clove tea for tooth decay.
- In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 3 whole cloves, then bring the mixture to a boil, letting it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove pot from heat, add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice, stirring until the honey dissolves.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup, discarding the cloves.
- Allow the tea to cool to a drinkable temperature.
- Sip the tea slowly, swishing it around your mouth before swallowing.
5. Cinnamon
Cinnamon tea fights tooth decay due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which originate from a compound called cinnamaldehyde.
This compound inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary cause of tooth decay. Furthermore, cinnamon tea's ability to stimulate saliva production helps wash away harmful acids and bacteria in the mouth. Additionally, the beverage's antioxidant content, specifically polyphenols, protects teeth and gums from oxidative stress.
Consequently, regular consumption of cinnamon tea contributes to improved oral health and reduced tooth decay.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cinnamon tea that help with tooth decay.
- Roots: Contain compounds that inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that contributes to tooth decay.
- Bark: Rich in tannins and essential oils, known for their antimicrobial properties that promote oral health.
- Leaves: High in antioxidants, reducing inflammation and providing relief from toothache and gum diseases.
- Buds: Packed with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, effective in preventing tooth decay and gum infections.
- Seeds: Contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents that aid in maintaining dental hygiene and relieving tooth pain.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in cinnamon tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Eugenol: A compound with potent antibacterial properties that inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a major cause of tooth decay.
- Cinnamaldehyde: The primary active component in cinnamon known for its strong antimicrobial effects, disrupting the formation of dental biofilms.
- Tannins: Polyphenolic compounds that exhibit astringent properties, reducing inflammation and providing protective barriers against tooth decay.
- Flavonoids: Antioxidant compounds that suppress the activity of bacterial enzymes that contribute to tooth decay, while promoting gum health.
- Phenolic acids: Natural organic compounds with antibacterial action that help to reduce the accumulation of harmful oral bacteria.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cinnamon tea for tooth decay.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 cinnamon stick, allowing it to simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground cinnamon, dissolving the honey.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture steep for an additional 5 minutes.
- Strain the liquid to remove cinnamon solids before consuming.
- Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for best results.
6. Echinacea
Echinacea tea, derived from the echinacea purpurea plant, contains active compounds known as alkamides and cichoric acid.
These compounds exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, actively combating the Streptococcus mutans bacteria that induce tooth decay. Furthermore, echinacea tea enhances the immune system, supporting the body's natural defenses against infections. By reducing inflammation, echinacea tea promotes dental health, alleviates gum disease, and slows tooth decay progression, ultimately improving overall oral health.
Regular consumption of echinacea tea can protect tooth enamel, prevent periodontal diseases, and freshen breath, making it a valuable addition to daily oral hygiene practices.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in echinacea tea that help with tooth decay.
- Roots: Contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce gum inflammation and prevent tooth decay.
- Flowers: Rich in tannins, which have astringent properties that can help tighten gum tissues, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.
- Leaves: Packed with phenols and other beneficial compounds known to exhibit antibacterial properties, inhibiting the growth of cavity-causing microorganisms.
- Seeds: Contain essential oils and acids with potent antibacterial properties, aiding in the prevention of tooth decay and plaque buildup.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in echinacea tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Cichoric acid: Acts as an antioxidant and inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
- Essential oils: Possess antibacterial properties that help reduce plaque buildup and prevent tooth decay.
- Polysaccharides: Stimulate the immune system, promoting oral health and fighting infections in the mouth.
- Flavonoids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping protect teeth from decay.
- Vitamin C: Promotes gum health by strengthening collagen, reducing inflammation, and preventing periodontal disease.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic echinacea tea for tooth decay.
- In a pot, combine 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea flowers and leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solid plant material.
- Allow the tea to cool to a drinkable temperature.
- Drink 2-3 cups of echinacea tea daily for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties that may help with tooth decay.
7. Licorice
Licorice tea's antibacterial properties, derived from its main compounds glycyrrhizin and fluoride, inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans.
This herbal tea's active ingredients specifically target these oral pathogens, reducing their ability to adhere to tooth enamel and form plaque. Moreover, glycyrrhizin encourages remineralization of enamel by increasing calcium and phosphate uptake, further bolstering teeth's resistance to decay. In addition, licorice tea stimulates saliva production, which mechanically rinses away food debris and bacteria while neutralizing acidic environments that can lead to enamel demineralization.
Ultimately, drinking licorice tea bolsters oral health, making it a valuable tool in preventing tooth decay.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with tooth decay.
- Roots: Contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with antibacterial properties that can help prevent tooth decay.
- Rhizomes: Rich in flavonoids and coumarins, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that can promote oral health.
- Leaves: High in tannins and caffeic acid, which have astringent properties that can help reduce plaque and prevent tooth decay.
- Flowers: Contain essential oils with antiseptic properties that can kill bacteria and freshen breath.
- Seeds: Rich in antioxidants, which can protect against oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the mouth.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Glycyrrhizin: Possesses antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Flavonoids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, helping to protect against tooth decay.
- Saponins: Known for their ability to prevent tooth decay by inhibiting the adhesion of harmful bacteria to tooth surfaces.
- Chalcones: Demonstrate antibacterial properties, which help reduce the risk of tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.
- Coumarins: Exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, contributing to the prevention of tooth decay.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for tooth decay.
- In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of dried licorice root, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature.
- Drink the tea up to three times a day for its dental benefits.
8. Ginger
Ginger tea contains natural compounds, such as gingerol, that exhibit potent antibacterial properties.
These compounds inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium responsible for tooth decay. By reducing bacterial colonization, ginger tea helps maintain a healthy oral environment, preventing plaque formation and enamel demineralization. Additionally, gingerol stimulates the production of saliva, which neutralizes acids produced by bacteria and further protects teeth from decay.
The anti-inflammatory effects of ginger also alleviate gum inflammation, promoting overall oral health.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with tooth decay.
- Roots: Contain high levels of gingerols, which have antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation and fight oral bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Rhizomes: Rich in antioxidants and have potent anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in preventing and treating gum diseases and tooth decay.
- Leaves: Packed with essential oils and phenolic compounds that inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay and bad breath.
- Flowers: Contain bioactive compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help prevent dental caries and gum inflammation.
- Seeds: High in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation, prevent dental caries, and improve overall oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Gingerol: A phenolic compound in ginger that exhibits antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Paradol: A pungent compound in ginger that has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing pain and swelling in the gums.
- Shogaols: A group of compounds in ginger that increase salivation, promoting the removal of food particles and bacteria from the mouth.
- Zingiberene: A sesquiterpene in ginger that has been shown to reduce periodontal inflammation and inhibit the formation of dental plaque.
- Citral: A lemon-scented compound in ginger that has antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium associated with tooth decay.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for tooth decay.
- Peel and grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger root.
- Boil 2 cups of water, then add grated ginger.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid into a cup, then add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 lemon juice.
- Stir well and drink while warm, up to three times a day after meals.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric tea contains curcumin, a compound with natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
These properties help reduce inflammation in the gums and prevent the growth of bacteria responsible for tooth decay. Curcumin also provides pain-relieving benefits, offering comfort to those experiencing toothache. Additionally, this compound promotes tissue regeneration, which aids in the healing process of damaged gums.
Regular consumption of turmeric tea enhances overall oral health by providing these dental benefits.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with tooth decay.
- Rhizomes: Contain curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help prevent tooth decay.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils that can reduce inflammation and provide relief from toothache and gum diseases.
- Flowers: Have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can aid in maintaining oral hygiene and preventing dental infections.
- Seeds: Contain high levels of vitamins and minerals that can strengthen teeth and gums and promote overall oral health.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Curcumin: A potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compound that inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium responsible for tooth decay.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid with significant antibacterial properties, disrupting the biofilm formation of cariogenic bacteria, thus preventing tooth decay.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid exhibiting potential antiplaque and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing the risk of gingivitis and tooth decay.
- Turmeric essential oil: Containing numerous aromatic compounds, such as turmerone and ar-turmerone, with demonstrated antimicrobial activities against dental caries-causing microorganisms.
- α-Turmerone: A key constituent of turmeric essential oil, displaying antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the prevention and treatment of tooth decay.
- β-Turmerone: A major bioactive compound in turmeric essential oil, possessing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, thereby aiding in the management of tooth decay.
- Curdione: A sesquiterpene with antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of cariogenic bacteria, thus reducing the risk of tooth decay.
- Furanodiene: A compound isolated from turmeric, demonstrating antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, useful for managing tooth decay and related oral infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for tooth decay.
- Boil 4 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper for 10 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 lemon juice to the boiling mixture, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer the tea for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the ingredients to blend and reduce.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer into a teapot or mug, discarding any solid remnants.
- Drink the tea while warm, up to three times daily after meals for best results.
10. Basil
Basil tea contains natural oils, including eugenol, which exhibits potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
These oils inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium responsible for tooth decay. Furthermore, basil tea's essential oils disrupt the formation of biofilm on teeth, preventing plaque buildup. Additionally, basil tea's high antioxidant content reduces oxidative stress in the mouth, promoting oral health.
Lastly, basil tea stimulates saliva production, enhancing the mouth's natural defenses against tooth decay.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in basil tea that help with tooth decay.
- Leaves: Contain essential oils that possess antibacterial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Seeds: Rich in nutrients and phytochemicals, they can help maintain oral health by reducing plaque buildup and inflammation.
- Flowers: Packed with antioxidants that support gum health, they help fight oxidative stress caused by tooth decay.
- Roots: Contain active compounds that can help strengthen tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay.
- Bark: Has natural astringent properties that can help reduce gum inflammation and soothe oral irritations.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in basil tea that aid with tooth decay.
- Eugenol: A compound with antimicrobial properties that inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a significant cause of tooth decay.
- Linalool: A terpene with anti-inflammatory properties that helps reduce inflammation in the gums, promoting oral health.
- Methyl chavicol: A phenylpropene known for its antioxidant activities, helping protect oral tissues from damage caused by free radicals.
- Orientin: A flavone with potential anti-cariogenic effects, preventing the formation of dental caries.
- Vicenin-2: A flavone that exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall oral health and preventing tooth decay.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic basil tea for tooth decay.
- Measure - Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of fresh basil leaves.
- Steep - Let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain - Strain the tea to remove basil leaves.
- Sweeten - Add raw honey to taste, if desired.
- Consume - Drink the tea while warm, 2-3 times a day after meals.
What is tooth decay and how can it affect your life?
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is the breakdown of tooth structure caused by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
This process leads to cavities, which are permanent holes in the teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can result in pain, infection, and even tooth loss. The impact of tooth decay extends beyond oral health, affecting individuals' overall well-being, self-esteem, and quality of life.
It can cause discomfort during eating, speaking, and social interactions, leading to limitations in daily activities and reduced productivity at work or school.
What other natural remedies help with tooth decay?
Proper oral hygiene is the most critical step in preventing tooth decay.
Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing are essential for removing plaque and food particles that can lead to decay. Additionally, oil pulling with coconut oil has gained popularity as a natural remedy to reduce plaque and improve oral health. Coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Moreover, a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus can promote strong teeth and prevent decay. Foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and seafood are excellent sources of these minerals. Licorice root has also been found to have antibacterial properties that can inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria. Chewing licorice root or using it as a toothpaste alternative can help maintain good oral health.
However, it's important to note that natural remedies should not replace regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.