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#### 3. **Combats Oral Infections**
Garlic can inhibit the growth of *Candida albicans*, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Regular use may help balance the microbiome in your mouth and prevent recurring infections.
#### 4. **Kills Cavity-Causing Bacteria**
Research shows garlic extracts can reduce *Streptococcus mutans*, a major contributor to tooth decay. Incorporating garlic into your diet may help protect your teeth over time.
#### 5. **Freshens Breath Over Time**
Although garlic breath is a known side effect, its antibacterial action can actually target the root causes of bad breath—especially if due to gum disease or oral bacteria buildup.
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### How to Use Garlic for Oral Health
Here are a few practical and simple ways to incorporate garlic into your oral care routine:
#### **1. Garlic Clove Chew (Quick Relief)**
– Peel a clove of fresh garlic.
– Slightly crush it to release the allicin.
– Place it in your mouth near the affected tooth or gums for a few minutes.
– Spit it out and rinse with warm water.
> *Note: This can cause a burning sensation—avoid if you have sensitive gums or open sores.*
#### **2. Garlic Oil Rinse**
– Mix a few drops of garlic-infused oil with warm water.
– Swish around your mouth for 30 seconds.
– Spit out and rinse with plain water.
#### **3. Garlic Paste for Toothache**
– Crush a clove and mix with a pinch of salt to form a paste.
– Apply to the sore tooth or inflamed gum area.
– Leave for a few minutes, then rinse.
#### **4. Add to Your Diet**
Eating garlic regularly supports not just oral health, but overall immunity—another key factor in fighting infections of all kinds.
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### A Few Words of Caution
– **Raw garlic is potent.** Always test on a small area first, and don’t overuse it.
– **Avoid long-term direct contact** on gums or mucous tissue—it can cause irritation.
– **Consult a dentist** if you have severe oral issues. Garlic is a great supplement but not a substitute for professional care.
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### Final Thoughts
Garlic may not be the first thing that comes to mind for dental care, but its benefits are too powerful to ignore. Whether you’re fighting gum inflammation, a toothache, or just want to naturally support oral health, garlic is a simple, affordable, and effective ally. Nature truly does provide some of the best remedies—and garlic is a shining example.
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