What happens when you gargle with salt water?

Gargling with salt water is a simple but effective method in protecting teeth if applied properly .

Salt is a substance with a long history in medicine, when used to treat wounds and ulcers. Over a long time with many applications, salt water is now also known to be beneficial for oral health.

This comes from salt's anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the gums and other tissues in the mouth. The antibacterial effects of salt also help kill bacteria that can cause bad breath and gum disease.

Salt water is considered safe to use, but should only be used 3-4 times a week or in necessary cases. Overusing salt water can damage tooth enamel and dry the oral cavity.

Gargling with salt water can benefit the oral cavity if done properly. (Photo: Teeth Talk Girl).

Salt water is easy to make at home and offers many benefits for oral health if used properly, according to Natru Smile.

Reduce bacteria

Salt water can reduce bacteria in the oral cavity by creating an environment that makes it difficult for bacteria to grow. Some infections such as gingivitis are often caused by bacterial overgrowth in the mouth.

In cases of bad breath and other dental conditions that affect the pH balance in the mouth, salt water will help regulate the oral cavity and reduce bacteria.

Protect your teeth

Salt water helps protect teeth from bacteria that cause tooth decay. The antibacterial properties of salt water help reduce the number of bacteria that cause tooth decay and prevent tooth damage.

Reduces bad odor in the mouth

Bad breath comes from many factors, including dry mouth, bacteria growth in the mouth, food stuck between teeth, smoking, infection after tooth extraction and use of certain medications.

Gargling with salt water can kill some bacteria that cause bad breath and moisturize the oral cavity.

Reduce inflammation

Salt water contains minerals that are good for teeth and gums such as calcium and magnesium, so it will help reduce inflammation in the oral cavity. This will improve symptoms of gingivitis or inflammatory conditions that cause irritation.

Stop bleeding

The minerals in salt water will form a protective coating on the wound and reduce inflammation after oral surgery or bleeding events. In addition, salt water also has pain-relieving effects.

Be careful when using salt water to gargle

There are currently no side effects recorded when using salt water for oral hygiene. However, it should be noted that some cases may contraindicate the use of salt water, such as people with high blood pressure or other medical conditions. At this time, you should consult your doctor before using salt water to gargle.

You can use salt water before or after brushing your teeth. However, gargling with salt water does not replace brushing and flossing, but should be combined with steps for optimal tooth protection.