5 Proven DIY Remedies for Gum Inflammation at Home

DIY Remedies for Gum Inflammation at Home

Ever encountered unexpected bleeding while brushing or flossing? Watch out, it could be a sign of gum inflammation!

But wait, what is Gum Inflammation?

Gum inflammation, or gingivitis, manifests as red, swollen gums prone to bleeding during brushing. It stems from plaque buildup along the gumline, fostering bacterial growth and irritation. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more severe forms of gum disease, ultimately leading to tooth loss.

What Causes Gum Inflammation?

Here’s the truth: being lazy with your toothbrush leads to bacterial buildup, eventually causing gum inflammation. In short, poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of gum inflammation across the globe. However, several other risk factors can contribute to poor gum health, including:

● Hormonal changes
●Imbalanced diet
●Smoking
●Certain medications
●Conditions like diabetes, leukemia, HIV/AIDS compromise immunity
●Aging
●Family history
●Viral and fungal infections

The Role of Diet in Gum Health

Your gingival health is greatly impacted by your dietary choices, regardless of the fancy dental products you might use. Remember, you are what you eat, so it is imperative to make the right choices. A balanced diet is essential for gum health, and certain foods like citrus fruits, poultry, fish, leafy greens, tomatoes, and dried fruits can help improve it. Include these foods for better gum health, starting today!

DIY Remedies for Gum Inflammation

Ever thought you could curb gingivitis and maintain your gum health from the comfort of your home? No? Well, you can. A few home remedies for improving gum health are:

1. Saltwater Rinse

A super easy and effective remedy, a salt water rinse, can provide significant benefits for healing inflamed gums. Salt acts as a natural disinfectant, aiding in quick and effective healing.

To make and use a salt water rinse:

● Add 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon of salt to a glass of lukewarm water and mix well.
● Swish the solution in your mouth for up to 30 seconds.
● Spit out the solution.
● Repeat two to three times per day.

Note: excessive or prolonged use of salt water rinse can harm tooth enamel due to its acidic nature, potentially leading to erosion. Use this remedy cautiously and follow the above-mentioned instructions.

2. Turmeric Gel

Turmeric gel, with its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, effectively prevents plaque production and gingivitis. Its active component, curcumin, helps in reducing gum inflammation and healing bleeding.

Instructions for use: Apply the gel to your gums for 10 minutes after brushing, rinse thoroughly, and repeat twice daily. Avoid if you are allergic to turmeric.

3. Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil

Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic technique, involves swishing oil in your mouth for 20 to 30 minutes to reduce bacteria, eliminate toxins, and enhance overall oral health. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, clinically proven to be effective in reducing gum inflammation.

To make and use a coconut oil pull:

● Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of fractionated coconut oil (liquid at room temperature) and place it in your mouth.
● Swish the oil around your mouth for 20 to 30 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t touch the back of your throat.
● Spit out the oil after the designated time.
● Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.
● Drink a full glass of water.
● Finally, brush your teeth.

Coconut oil pulling may offer added advantages like:

● Whitening teeth
● Preventing cavities
● Freshening breath
● Killing harmful bacteria
● Clearing sinuses
● Easing headaches and tension

Oil pulling is safe but don’t get too excited and swallow the liquid; it may contain toxins and bacteria pulled from your mouth tissues.

4. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is an essential part of natural gum care with efficacy proven to be at par with conventional mouth rinses such as chlorhexidine! Amazing, isn’t it?
Unlike other mouthwashes, aloe vera juice requires no dilution. Make sure the juice is 100 percent pure before using!

To use an aloe vera mouthwash:

● Swish the juice in your mouth for 30 seconds.
● Spit out the solution.
● Repeat two to three times per day.

Purchase aloe vera from a trusted source and strictly adhere to label instructions. Avoid using it if you are allergic.

5. Tea Tree Oil Mouthwash

Though essential oils are just for skincare? Well, the answer is no. Essential oils, notably tea tree oil, can be used as an effective mouth wash. After being dormant in medicine for thousands of years, these oils have regained popularity in recent years for their natural source and varied health benefits.

To use a tea tree oil mouthwash:

● Add up to 3 drops of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water.
● Swish the solution in your mouth for up to 30 seconds.
● Spit out the solution.
● Repeat two to three times per day.

You may also add a drop of tea tree oil to your toothpaste when brushing your teeth! When trying tea tree oil for the first time, use a highly diluted amount as high concentrations may cause:

● rash
● an allergic reaction
● mild burning

Tea tree oil can also cause interactions with certain drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Be careful when using this essential oil, but feel free to make it a part of your daily oral hygiene routine.

Preventing Gum Inflammation: Daily Practices

You can prevent gum disease by following a few simple gum health tips such as:

● Floss daily: Remove plaque and food debris beyond toothbrush reach, effective any time of the day.
● Regular dental cleanings: Detect early gum disease symptoms with regular dental visits and professional cleaning.
● Quit smoking: a weakened immune system from smoking makes gum infections harder to fight.
● Brush twice daily: Use soft-bristled toothbrushes, consider electric ones for better plaque control.
● Fluoride toothpaste and therapeutic mouthwash: Choose ADA-approved options to reduce plaque, gingivitis, and tartar.

When to See a Dentist?

Occasionally, because you know, they’re pretty awesome, haha! But if you notice any new, severe, or long-lasting issues with your gums, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dentist ASAP!

The following symptoms might warrant a visit:

● Bright red or purple gums
● Gums bleed easily when brushing teeth or flossing
● Foul-smelling breath that doesn’t go away
● Pain while chewing
● Constant feeling of sticking a sharp between your gums
● Toothache
● Swollen and receding gums
● Loose teeth

The dentist would probably recommend deep cleaning and may refer you to a periodontist (a specialist in gum health) if the symptoms are too severe.

Conclusion

Gum inflammation, or gingivitis, is a common but preventable condition characterized by swollen, red gums that may bleed during brushing. It’s primarily caused by plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene, but other factors like diet, smoking, and certain medical conditions can contribute to it. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups is crucial for prevention.

Additionally, a balanced diet rich in nutrients can support gum health. Home remedies such as saltwater rinses, turmeric gel, oil pulling, aloe vera, and tea tree oil mouthwash help manage symptoms. However, if gum inflammation persists or worsens, consulting a dentist is essential to prevent more serious gum diseases and maintain overall oral health.

In conclusion, addressing gum inflammation promptly is essential for maintaining good oral health. Start using these simple DIY home remedies beginning today to actively fight gum disease and improve your overall dental health!