Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. It is caused by poor dental hygiene allowing plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – to build up along and under the gumline. While advanced gum disease requires professional treatment, early stages can often be treated at home with good oral care and natural remedies.
Identifying Gum Disease Symptoms
Common symptoms of early gum disease include red, swollen, tender gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing. You may notice receding gums, exposing more tooth surfaces or persistent bad breath. There may be no pain, but the diseased pocket created can loosen teeth over time or allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream to impact overall health negatively. Catching gum infection early is key.
Implementing Thorough Oral Hygiene
Preventing further gum inflammation and bone loss starts with diligent plaque removal through brushing, flossing, and antiseptic mouthwash. Brush gently at a 45-degree angle using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily, curving around each tooth to remove debris. Follow up with mouthwash to eliminate lingering bacteria. Consistency is vital, as even daily plaque can irritate diseased gums.
Using Saltwater Rinses and Compresses
Saltwater makes an effective mild antiseptic to treat gum inflammation, both as a rinse and direct compress. Dissolve half a teaspoon of sea salt in one cup of lukewarm water. Swish liquid vigorously around teeth and gums, then spit out. Repeat with a second cupful. For compresses, soak clean gauze in solution, wring out excess, and press it against sore gums for a few minutes to reduce pain and swelling.
Taking Anti-Inflammatory Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements made from botanical extracts like aloe vera, chamomile, peppermint, green tea and myrrh contain compounds that reduce inflammation and infection. Used alongside oral hygiene, they may calm gum irritation. Follow packaging instructions or use as directed by your naturopath when choosing supplements to support your gum health during disease recovery.
Adjusting Your Lifestyle Habits
Poor nutrition, smoking cigarettes, grinding teeth at night, and chronic stress negatively impact your mouth’s ability to fight off gum disease. By adjusting related lifestyle habits, you bolster overall wellness and oral environment to help diseased gums heal. Eat more fresh vegetables and get regular exercise to nourish the body’s recovery capacity and help manage infection risks.
Using Antimicrobial Plant Oils
Essential oils extracted from plants like thyme, oregano, cinnamon bark, clove and tea tree oil contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents that fight harmful mouth bacteria when applied topically to gums. Mix 3-5 drops into a cup of warm water. Swish and gargle the solution for 30 seconds before spitting out. The oils continue working for hours, reducing infection between oral hygiene sessions.
Scheduling Regular Dental Cleanings
While home care can improve mild cases of gum disease, professional teeth cleanings remove hardened plaque below the gum line that daily flossing and brushing cannot reach. Most dentists recommend cleanings and checkups every 6 months. If visiting a dentist proves difficult, locate community dental clinics that work on an income-based sliding fee scale in your area to access quality, affordable preventative oral healthcare.
Conclusion
Catching gum infection early and establishing an effective daily oral hygiene routine supplemented by antimicrobial rinses, anti-inflammatory herbs, and lifestyle changes enables some patients to counter mild gum disease without extensive professional treatment. However, moderate to advanced infections with pronounced bone loss and tooth detachment requires dentist interventions like deep cleanings, antibiotic medications or gum grafts, so see a professional promptly if at-home care proves ineffective. Maintaining vigilant oral healthcare remains key to keeping gums healthy between dental visits.
FAQs
What causes gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a bacterial film building up along and below the gumline due to ineffective brushing and flossing that triggers infection and inflammation.
What are common signs of early gum disease?
Swollen, red gums that bleed when brushing, receding gums, persistent bad breath and sensitive teeth are key signs gum disease may be developing.
Should I still see a dentist if I have gum disease?
Yes. At best home care can only manage mild gum disease cases. More advanced infections require professional dental cleanings and treatment for lasting healing.
What natural ingredients help combat gum disease?
Saltwater rinses, herbal supplements, essential oils and mouthwashes with botanical extracts like aloe, green tea, peppermint and chamomile can help combat gum disease bacteria and reduce inflammation when used consistently.