As a dentist, the most important thing a patient can do to prevent cavities is use good oral hygiene. This means flossing and brushing twice a day. Literature shows that using an ADA approved toothpaste with fluoride can significantly reduce the amount of cavities in your mouth. But what if you were stranded on a desert island, with no drug-store in sight to purchase toothpaste and floss? What then?
There has been some recent research to show that “oil pulling” can be effective technique in reducing bacteria in your mouth. Oil pulling is an Indian remedy which involves putting a tablespoon of oil (coconut works great) in your mouth and swishing with it for about 10 minutes. Studies show this swishing actually improves your gums as well.
Another good thing to do if you are without toothpaste and floss, is to increase your saliva flow. This can be accomplished by eating a food like raisins. Raisins will stimulate your body increase the amount of saliva which should help to “wash” away bacteria in your mouth.
There are many websites that preach making your own toothpaste out of baking soda. Please be careful with this technique because baking soda is abrasive. These abrasive elements can not only damage your natural teeth but they can scratch any composite or crowns you may have in your mouth.