Gum disease, an infection or inflammation that harms the gums, consists of three stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. The United States alone records over three million gum disease cases annually.
Though gum disease requires a professional medical diagnosis, it doesn't necessitate imaging or lab tests. Typical symptoms include red, tender, and swollen gums, often resulting from inadequate oral hygiene. Neglecting the condition could lead to tooth loss and other health complications.
Some individuals seem to have a genetic predisposition to gum disease, making them more vulnerable than others. If you fall into this category, maintaining good dental hygiene, such as regular flossing to prevent plaque buildup, is crucial.
If you're already grappling with gum disease, enhancing your dental hygiene and maintenance can prevent the condition from worsening. Below are some natural methods to help combat gum disease:
- Turmeric Paste and Garlic: Turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory herb, and garlic, a renowned antibacterial agent, can be used to soothe irritated gums. You can either rub garlic cloves directly on your gums or create a turmeric and garlic paste to use as toothpaste. Rinse your mouth thoroughly after application.
- Charcoal: Surprisingly, charcoal not only aids in healing gum disease but also in teeth whitening!
- Sage Leaf: A decoction made from sage leaves can help prevent gingivitis and gum disease. Boil about 50 fresh, organic sage leaves in distilled water, then gargle the liquid throughout the day, or make a sage tea to consume. The natural antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of sage can provide both relief and prevention.
- Oil Pulling: This technique helps cure red and swollen gums and can even reverse bone loss resulting from gum disease. Oil pulling works by drawing toxins from your gums and removing plaque buildup. Use organic olive, sesame, or coconut oil, and swish it in your mouth for several minutes.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Ideally, use aloe straight from the plant for its anti-inflammatory effect that helps reduce gum redness and inflammation.
- Neem: Widely used in India for its antimicrobial and antifungal qualities, neem promotes dental health. It is often available in toothpaste or mouthwash form.
- Mustard Oil: An age-old remedy known to eliminate mouth bacteria causing gum disease. It not only heals the gums but also helps reduce pain with its antibacterial and antimicrobial agents.
Including plenty of fruits and vegetables with their skins in your diet can also help clean your teeth and prevent gum disease. The vitamin C and antioxidants in many fruits and vegetables inhibit plaque buildup on the teeth and gums.
The sooner you tackle gum disease, the more likely you are to treat it effectively without resorting to more invasive dental procedures.
Gum disease can develop silently over a long time, so always ensure good mouth and teeth care for lifelong dental health.
