Red, swollen, or bleeding gums are more than just uncomfortable, they are a sign that you may be developing gum disease. If left alone, gum disease can progress and create serious dental problems. Thankfully, it’s usually possible to treat gum disease when it’s caught early. Often, simple home remedies can take care of the problem, leaving you with clean, healthy teeth and gums.
What is Gum Disease?
- Gums that are swollen, tender, or red
- Bleeding gums
- Gums that pull away or recede from teeth
- Persistent bad breath or unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Loose teeth
- Pus around teeth and gums
Preventing Gum Disease
Gum disease is preventable with proper oral care; the key is to remove the plaque-producing bacteria that cause the inflammation. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, floss once a day, and visit your dentist for a professional cleaning twice a year. Taking care of your teeth and gums is the best way to prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy and fresh.
Treating Gum Disease
The first step in treating gum disease is to establish a routine of good oral care. Consistent dental hygiene can help irritated gums recover in as little as a few days. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can also help reduce irritation. Dental cleanings help treat gum disease because professionals are equipped to better remove bacteria and plaque. In addition, there are a number of home remedies that can be made out of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. These natural remedies can help speed your recovery and provide relief.Safely Using Home Remedies
1. Sea Salt Water Rinse
- Help ease pain
- Soothe gums
- Reduce harmful bacteria
- Remove food particles
- Relieve bad breath
Make your own sea salt water rinse by mixing ½ to ¾ teaspoon of sea salt with a cup of lukewarm water. Swish the rinse around in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Rinse with salt water two to three times per day. Overuse of salt water rinse can negatively impact the tooth enamel. The acidic properties of the rinse can eat away at tooth enamel with long-term use, so stick with rinsing for 30 seconds, two to three times per day, and stop using the rinse when your gums clear up.
2. Turmeric Paste
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice with a peppery taste; it commonly gives curries their distinctive flavor. It also appears to have some impressive health benefits, and can be used to help heal inflamed gums. Make a paste by mixing one teaspoon turmeric with half teaspoon salt and half teaspoon mustard oil. Apply the paste to your gums twice a day to help reduce inflammation.
3. Aloe Vera Mouthwash
4. Sage Mouthwash
5. Coconut Oil Pulling
- Reduce plaque
- Freshen breath
- Whiten teeth
- Relieve tension and headaches
- Clear sinuses
Do a coconut oil pull by putting one to two teaspoons of liquid coconut oil in your mouth. Swish it around, pulling it through your teeth and avoiding the back of your throat, for 20 to 30 minutes. Spit out the oil, rinse with water, and spit out the water. Then drink a glass of water and brush your teeth. As you begin practicing coconut oil pulling, it may be helpful to start with a shorter period of time and build up to 20 to 30 minutes. Or swish twice a day for a shorter amount of time.
6. Clove Topical Application
Gum disease is a serious oral problem, but catching it early can help you treat it effectively. Proper oral care is key, but home remedies can help clear up inflammation more quickly, leaving you with a healthy, clean mouth. You can also look for toothpaste and other oral care products that contain these natural ingredients that promote overall oral health.