It’s no one’s favourite subject: Gum disease.
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease affects a significant number of people around the world.
While there’s no substitute for professional dental care, there are several natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments that you can make that can ease symptoms and improve gum health.
Let’s take a look at some effective natural remedies for gum disease and consider how they can enhance oral hygiene routines and outcomes.
Gum Disease 100
Just before we get to the natural remedies, let’s get a handle on the basics of gum disease and how the condition progresses. Simply put, gum disease takes hold when the bacteria in plaque accumulates along the gumline, causing inflammation and leading to, if untreated, infection. Without proper treatment, this infection escalates, ultimately causing a range of nasty issues, including gum recession, tooth loss, and even wider systemic health complications. Yikes!
Natural Remedies for Gum Disease
Before you panic, there are a range of actions you can take, but remember: none of these holistic remedies are a substitute for the attention of a trained dental professional. If you’re in any doubt about the severity or progression of your symptoms, contact Simply Dental in Lambton Quay on 0800 123 343. You can also email the office at [email protected].
- Oil Pulling: An increasingly popular practice, this ancient technique involves swishing coconut oil (or sesame oil) roundabout in the mouth for about 15-20 minutes before spitting it out. While research into the efficacy of this technique is limited, oil pulling is thought to aid in removing bacteria and toxins from the mouth, thereby promoting gum health.
- Saltwater Rinse: Similarly, rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution can alleviate inflammation and eliminate bacteria in the gums. The recipe is simple: Just mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, swish it around the mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, and then spit it out.
- Turmeric Paste: Turmeric, has long been known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. To get the benefit of turmeric paste, mix a little turmeric powder with water to form a paste and apply it to your gums. Leave it there for a few minutes, and then rinse your mouth with water. For best results, repeat daily until symptoms improve.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Just like when you’ve got a sunburn, aloe vera possesses deeply soothing properties. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the affected gum areas and gently massage to diminish gum inflammation and support healing. Remember to rinse thoroughly afterwards.
- Green Tea: Not only is it positively delicious, but regular consumption of green tea can benefit your gum health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Aim for at least one cup of green tea daily for an easy way to bolster oral health.
Lifestyle Changes for Gum Health
But it’s not just about the potions and elixirs – it’s also about what you do.
Step 1: Maintain your oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day to eliminate plaque and bacteria from between teeth and along your gum line.
Step 2: Eat a balanced diet: Enjoy a delicious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to provide essential nutrients for gum health. Definitely limit the consumption of sugary and acidic foods, which can exacerbate gum disease.
Step 3: Quit Smoking. Smoking compromises the immune system and heightens the risk of gum disease. Consider quitting smoking to improve oral health and overall well-being.
Again, while natural remedies are a convenient way to complement professional dental care, it’s still advisable to consult with a dentist before trying any new treatments – especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant.
Nevertheless, by incorporating natural remedies and healthy lifestyle changes into your daily routine, you can bolster gum health and diminish the risk of gum disease.
As always, prevention is paramount, so stick to your regular dental checkup and cleaning schedule to support your long-term optimal oral health. Your smile will reap the benefits!
Schedule a consultation with Simply Dental by calling 0800 123 343 or book online. Our dental team will evaluate your gum health and explore personalised treatment options and preventive measures tailored to your unique needs.