Why is brushing teeth with tea tree oil Better?

Fluoride has long been the go-to mineral in oral care products, but what if you’re seeking an option that doesn’t include it? This raises the question: is brushing with tea tree oil a viable substitute?

Good news awaits! Numerous dental products, including toothpaste, mouth rinses, toothpicks, coated floss, and gels, feature tea tree oil as an ingredient (1).

Despite its popularity, dental health organizations globally typically do not endorse it. Are there substantial benefits for enhancing our gum health, or even preventing cavities and gum disease?

The article will delve into the nature of tea tree oil, exploring its medicinal properties while assessing how effective it truly is in the realm of dental health.

Understanding Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, or Melaleuca oil, is derived from the leaves of the tea tree, scientifically known as Melaleuca alternifolia. This tree flourishes in the warmer parts of Australia, primarily southeast Queensland and the northeast coasts of New South Wales (2).

For centuries, it has been employed as a traditional remedy by Aboriginal Australians, who applied a tea tree paste to treat wounds and brewed tea for throat issues.

The medicinal attributes of tea tree oil are vast (3), boasting:

• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiviral
• Antifungal

Its topical applications are well-known. But how does it function in oral health?

Mechanism of Action

Bacteria are known culprits behind gum disease and dental cavities. Utilizing tea tree oil is thought to curb bacterial proliferation in the mouth through its antimicrobial and antibacterial attributes.

The active component responsible for these characteristics is terpinen-4-ol. Research indicates that tea tree oil can impede the adhesion of bacteria linked to periodontal disease and cavities, such as P. gingivalis and S. mutans (1).

Animal studies have also shown that it can reduce inflammatory responses during mouth infections (4).

This reduction in harmful bacteria hints at a lesser likelihood of cavities and gum disease. But does the evidence support its effectiveness for treating oral issues?

Does It Truly Work in Dental Health?

Studies have demonstrated that tea tree oil reduces oral bacteria levels, yet without impacting plaque formation (5). As plaque is a key contributor to gingivitis and periodontitis, its formation being unchanged means no significant risk reduction, regardless of oil usage.

Why Doesn’t it Affect Plaque Formation?

The mouth houses both beneficial and harmful bacteria, forming a sticky biofilm on the teeth and gums. When tea tree oil is applied, it may reduce bacteria levels temporarily, but it doesn’t eliminate all bacteria. Given the mouth's conducive environment for bacterial regrowth, any remaining bacteria quickly repopulate, rendering the plaque formation unaffected.

Can It Prevent Gum Disease or Dental Cavities?

While it can lower bacterial counts, entirely plaque-free gums are necessary for tea tree oil to potentially avert gingivitis and cavities, especially when harmonized with rigorous oral hygiene efforts. The question remains—if excellent dental care is upheld, is it the brushing alone or the addition of tea tree oil that is effective?

Can it Address Periodontal Disease?

Individuals with periodontal disease often have deep bacterial pockets and plaque-covered tooth roots. Brushing with tea tree oil would be ineffective in these cases, as tea tree oil cannot penetrate or dissolve plaque in these areas. Only sophisticated dental interventions can adequately remove the plaque buildup.

Is Oral Use of Tea Tree Oil Safe?

While the Mayo Clinic acknowledges topical tea tree oil's safety, they advise against its oral use, as it poses toxicity risks if ingested (6).

This raises concerns about the capability to avoid swallowing any tea tree oil. Small amounts may be tolerable, yet are you willing to risk cumulative adverse effects over time?

Even if dental products include tea tree oil at acceptable levels, their effectiveness in reducing oral bacteria is still uncertain, leaving one to ponder their actual utility.

In Conclusion—Is Brushing with Tea Tree Oil Advisable?

Brush enthusiasts may be inclined toward fluoride alternatives. The evidence suggests that tea tree oil could function as a natural remedy, potentially helping to stave off the onset of gum disease if utilized alongside diligent self-care. It's important to remember that its toxic properties could be a concern if used orally.

Regardless of whether you incorporate tea tree oil into your routine or not, dental professionals recommend brushing teeth twice daily, using a gum pocket brush, and thoroughly cleaning interdental areas on a daily basis.

If you're keen on discovering more about brushing teeth with tea tree oil, don't hesitate to contact us today for expert insights!

For those seeking to prevent or manage gum disease at home, we offer guidance on the most effective techniques. Explore more on our platform.

References

Written by

Sharon Fyles

Periodontitis Expert & Writer

Sharon Fyles, BSc (Hons, SW), MSc, Dip, is a Manchester-based expert dental writer specializing in periodontal diseases and their treatment.

Medically Reviewed and Verified by Dr. Gareth Edwards BDS (Hons), MFDS (RCPS Glasgow)