Having a good oral care routine is a great way to prevent gum disease and build the foundation for healthy gums. But there are plenty of at-home natural remedies that can be surprisingly effective alongside standard dental practices.
Let’s take a deeper look at some of the best natural remedies for treating gum disease and how to use them safely.
Best Natural Remedies for Treating Gum Disease
Before trying any of these natural remedies, it’s important to remember that they work best for mild to moderate forms of gum disease. It’s also not a replacement for a proper oral hygiene routine and professional dental care.
We recommend talking to your dentist first before considering natural remedies and trying these treatments in addition to brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily:
- Oil pulling — Coconut oil’s antimicrobial properties can help reduce harmful bacteria and plaque buildup. Try swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil for 15 to 20 minutes each morning before brushing.
- Turmeric — Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. Combine it with water to make a paste, and apply it to your gums for 10 minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly.
- Green tea — Green tea’s antioxidants can help fight inflammation and bacteria. Try drinking a few cups daily or using it as a cooling mouthwash after it brews.
- Aloe vera — You can use aloe vera directly as a mouthwash for its healing and antibacterial qualities.
- Salt water rinse — This is a simple and effective way to reduce swelling, bacteria, and discomfort. Dissolve a tablespoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it around for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Tea tree oil — Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Dilute a couple of drops of tea tree oil to make a mouthwash. Be careful with it, though, as it can cause irritation at higher concentrations.
Remember, natural remedies aren’t completely harmless. They can sometimes irritate sensitive gums, and you still need to watch out for allergic reactions. If you’re experiencing any kind of adverse reaction, stop immediately and consult your dentist.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Natural remedies can be great for preventing gum disease, but there are many other things you can do to improve your oral health. Try brushing for at least two minutes twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. You should also use mouthwash and floss regularly.
You can make dietary changes like eating healthier foods and drinking more water to prevent gum disease. Avoiding sugary and starchy foods can also help reduce plaque buildup.
Lastly, chronic stress can greatly affect your overall health, including your teeth and gums. Try to develop healthier habits like regular exercise and proper sleep to reduce stress and improve your oral health.
How Can You Tell If You Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health condition that starts with inflammation of the gums. It’s mainly caused by plaque buildup and other factors like:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Hormonal imbalances or fluctuations
- Underlying health conditions like diabetes
- A family history of gum disease
Recognizing these early symptoms of gum disease could be the difference between a simple procedure and a costly one. Be on the lookout for:
- Bleeding gums
- Red, swollen, and tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- A foul taste in your mouth
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Changes in bite
Don’t wait for obvious symptoms to show up before going to a dentist. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings can help detect the signs of gum disease and reverse early gum disease before you even notice any issues.
Why Should You See a Dentist?
Ideally, you should be visiting the dentist regularly. They can catch problems early on and stop the progression of gum disease before it gets worse.
They can also provide:
- Personalized guidance for preventing gum disease
- Scaling and root planing for hardened plaque (tartar)
- Gum surgery for advanced gum disease
- Medication and antibiotics for infections
You can also talk to your dentist about exploring natural remedies. They can give you guidance on these remedies, their effectiveness, and whether or not they are good for you.
How Does Gum Disease Affect Your Overall Health?
Gum disease is often associated with other health conditions. Research shows that chronic gum inflammation leads to a greater risk for serious health conditions like:
- Heart disease — Bacteria from your mouth can travel through the bloodstream, potentially contributing to inflammation in the blood vessels and increasing the risk of heart problems.
- Diabetes — Gum disease complicates blood sugar control for diabetics. Diabetes itself is a risk factor for gum disease.
- Respiratory issues — Inhaling bacteria from infected gums can lead to or worsen respiratory problems like pneumonia, especially for people with weak immune systems.
Your dentist can examine these conditions and determine how they affect your gums. They can also refer you to other healthcare professionals to help you manage or treat these underlying health conditions.
Is Gum Disease Reversible?
Gum disease is reversible in its early stages (gingivitis). With the right treatment, gingivitis can be reversed.
However, once gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, the damage to the gum tissue and supporting structures is irreversible. At this stage, treatment focuses on managing the condition and preventing further damage rather than reversing the disease.
The time it takes to recover from periodontitis depends on the extent of the damage and how far it’s progressed. It can take 3 months or longer to get periodontitis under control.
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