Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, usually caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can become a more serious infection known as periodontitis. Gum disease is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth.
Some of the symptoms of gum disease are: bad breath, red or swollen gums, tender or bleeding gums, painful chewing, loose teeth, sensitive teeth, and receding gums or longer appearing teeth. Some of the causes of gum disease are: poor oral hygiene, smoking or chewing tobacco, genetics, pregnancy, hormonal changes, diabetes, and medications.
Here are a few effective home remedies that can be used to alleviate symptoms, treat gum disease and prevent further complications.
1. Salt
The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of salt can take care of the bacteria that cause periodontitis. Plus, it can reduce inflammation and pain. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to a glass of lukewarm water. Swish a mouthful of this solution around in your mouth for 1 minute. Spit and do it again. Follow this treatment 2 or 3 times a day. Another option is to mix a pinch of salt and a little mustard oil to make a paste. After brushing your teeth, rub this mixture on the gums and leave it on for 5 minutes. Then, rinse thoroughly with warm water. Follow this remedy daily in the morning.
2. Lemongrass Oil
A mouthwash containing a small amount of lemongrass oil can lower bacterial plaque levels. A lemongrass oil rinse is quick and easy to make, but it can be potent. Simply add two to three drops of lemongrass oil to a cup of water, swish the solution in your mouth for up to 30 seconds, and spit. You may want to try just one drop at first and increase if it doesn’t aggravate the lining of your mouth.
3. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient ayurvedic remedy to whiten your teeth, freshen your breath and greatly improve your oral health. It helps strengthen the teeth and gums, reduces plaque, and relieves bad breath. Oil pulling involves swishing oil around the mouth, using it like a mouthwash. Swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth and through the teeth for about 15 minutes or until it becomes thinner and turns milky. Do not gargle or swallow the oil. Then spit it out and rinse your mouth with water. Repeat this process daily for about a month for best results.
4. Honey
Honey is also known to contain natural anti-bacterial properties that help eliminate bacteria which cause gum infection. Applying raw honey over the gums after brushing can have beneficial effects for those suffering from periodontal disease.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide
Because of its antibacterial properties, hydrogen peroxide may help treat gum disease. Plaque that forms on the teeth contains a slimy film of bacteria called a biofilm. Hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen that helps destroy the bacteria. It also helps whiten and brighten your teeth’s.
Make sure you use the 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution that typically comes in brown bottles, rather than the highly concentrated version. Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Rinse your mouth with this solution for few seconds, and then spit it out. Use it few times a week until you are satisfied with the results. Do not use hydrogen peroxide too often, once a day is sufficient.
6. Sage
Sage contains over 60 beneficial compounds and substances, which tackle a variety of different health problems. And in the case of gum disease, sage may even help to significantly decrease inflammation of the gums. Sage has potent antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antimicrobial properties that help destroy cavity-causing bacteria and neutralize microbes that promote dental plaque.
Sage also contains healing compounds that accelerate wound healing. This makes the plant a great remedy for soothing sore, swollen and bleeding gums. In a study, a sage-based mouthwash was shown to effectively kill the bacteria Streptococcus mutans, which is the main bacteria in dental plaque responsible for the development of cavities. Sage has aromatic, spasmolytic, antiseptic astringent properties that may treat throat infections, dental abscesses, infected gums, and mouth ulcers.
To use a sage mouthwash:
- Boil 1 to 2 cups of water.
- Add 2 tablespoons of fresh sage or 1 teaspoon of dried sage to the water.
- Let it simmer 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain and let the water cool.
- Use the solution to rinse two to three times per day.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric can easily kill the bacteria present in the gums as well as relieve pain and inflammation. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, and it has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also promotes oral health. Use turmeric powder to brush your teeth and gums using a soft-bristle toothbrush. Do this 2 times a day for a few weeks. Alternatively, prepare a gum pack with turmeric to treat periodontitis. Mix a pinch of turmeric powder with a little water or vitamin E oil to make a paste. Apply it on your gums before going to bed. The next morning, rinse your mouth with warm water. Do this once daily for several weeks.
8. Clove Oil
Since ancient times clove is known to be a remedy to dental pains. Clove oil can be applied in concentrated or diluted form on the gums. Clove has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. You can also get rid of the bad breath with clove oil.
9. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The plant is also rich in antioxidants. For this reason, people use aloe vera to treat and relieve inflammation related to gum disease and other oral issues. Being an antimicrobial, it also kills the bacteria that cause gum disease. Swish some aloe vera juice around in your mouth few times a day for treating gum disease. Alternatively, massage your gums with fresh aloe vera gel, leave it on for at least 30 minutes and then rinse it off. Repeat this process several times a day.
10. Guava Leaf
The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of guava leaf mouthwash have a positive effect on controlling plaque. Guava leaf mouthwash may also reduce gum inflammation, relieve pain and freshen breath.
To use a guava leaf mouthwash:
- Crush five to six tender guava leaves with a mortar and pestle.
- Add the crushed leaves to 1 cup of boiling water.
- Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Allow the solution to cool and add a small amount of salt.
- Swish the lukewarm mouthwash in your mouth for up to 30 seconds.
- Spit out the solution.
- Repeat two to three times per day for better results.
11. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help fight microorganisms. Also, it helps reduce bleeding and gingival inflammation. Tea tree oil is also beneficial for other dental issues like oral thrush and herpes. Apply tea tree oil in the form of gel using a toothbrush twice daily for several weeks. Another option is to add a drop of tea tree oil in your regular toothpaste and brush your teeth with it twice daily.
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent gingivitis. You should:
- Brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice daily.
- Floss daily to remove food particles that lead to bacteria and plaque buildup.
- Use mouthwash.
- Quit or avoid smoking.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it regularly.
- Use an electric toothbrush if possible.
- Have regular dental exams and cleanings.
Try these recipes and let us know if you receive relief or not by visiting our comment section.