Easy home recipes to treat gingivitis
If brushing your gums causes swelling, pain, or bleeding, you likely have gingivitis, but don't worry, gingivitis can be treated! Where early intervention allows the dentist to treat and even remove its effects, start your gum treatment today by booking an appointment with your dentist and improving your oral hygiene routine.
What causes gingivitis?
The main cause of gingivitis is the accumulation or formation of a layer of plaque, and plaque is a thin layer of bacteria that collects on the surfaces of the teeth, and the accumulation of plaque below the level of the gums causes inflammation.
Neglecting to remove plaque leads to hardening and the formation of what is known as scaling of the teeth, and when the infection is neglected and left untreated, this leads to the separation of the gums from the tooth.
It may develop to the point of damage to the soft tissues and bones supporting the teeth, which leads to the instability of the teeth, which in turn may lead to tooth loss.
There are many factors that contribute to the occurrence of gingivitis, and these factors include the following:
- Smoking and chewing tobacco, both of which reduce the ability of the gums to heal.
- The places that are difficult to clean and that constitute a suitable environment for the accumulation of plaque and tartar, and these places are the result of the irregular arrangement of the teeth, that is, the oblique and crooked teeth.
- Bad eating habits such as eating foods rich in sugars and carbohydrates, and low water content, which increases the chance of plaque formation, and it should be noted that a lack of foods rich in vitamin C may delay or prevent gum healing.
- Some types of medicines and diseases, including epilepsy medicines such as phenytoin, as well as some angina and high blood pressure medicines. These medicines include calcium channel blockers as well as some medicines used in the treatment of cancer.
- Diseases that lead to gingivitis include diseases that reduce the body's immunity such as AIDS, leukemia, some types of viral and fungal infections, and cancers.
- Diabetes that impairs blood circulation, which reduces the gums' ability to heal.
- Hormonal changes, where hormonal changes increase the sensitivity of the gums and make them more susceptible to inflammation, such as during pregnancy, menstruation, puberty,
- stress and anxiety, because of their ability to weaken the body's immunity.
- Dry mouth, mouth breathing.
Treatment of gingivitis
There are many home recipes used in the treatment of gums, including:
rinsing with saline The saline
solution plays a major role in the treatment of gingivitis, due to its great ability to fight bacteria in the oral cavity and prevent it from multiplying, but it is taken into account not to swallow it during rinsing.
The way to prepare brine at home is simple, all you have to do is add a spoonful of salt to a cup of warm water and stir well.
Lubricate the gums with natural oils Gingivitis
can be treated at home by applying coconut or almond oil, leaving it for 30 minutes and then cleaning it.
These natural oils contain anti-inflammatory properties.
Put the tea bag on the gums.
After you finish drinking the tea, do so. Do not throw the bag in the trash, but put it on the affected gums for 5 minutes, to get rid of the inflammation.
To get the most benefit from this treatment method, it is preferable to use a green tea bag, as it contains a high percentage of antioxidants, which in turn contribute to relieving inflammation and reducing swelling. Pain relief.
Using aloe vera toothpaste
Some research has shown that aloe vera toothpaste may help treat gingivitis, thanks to its effective role in eliminating oral bacteria.
Using a mouthwash made from guava leaves
A group of studies revealed that a mouthwash made from guava leaves helps remove plaque, which is one of the causes of gingivitis, in addition to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Oral care routine
After you've had your exam and received dental health treatment, start with periodontitis care. Your dentist or dental hygienist will give you instructions on the correct home care routine, but at the very least, follow these guidelines:
- Brush your teeth twice a day: If regular brushing is already part of your routine, make sure again that you're using the correct technique. Your healing gums may require gentle treatment at first, so be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and apply the right amount of pressure.
- Clean between your teeth once a day.
- Flossing between your teeth and below the gum line daily removes irritants such as bacteria and food waste and helps reduce inflammation.
- Also try other interdental cleaners, such as a toothbrush, dental floss with water, or wooden plaque removers.
- Add mouthwash for added protection: Over-the-counter mouthwash offers another way to treat inflammation and control bacterial growth in the mouth, especially after professional dental hygiene treatment. Find an antiseptic mouthwash or ask your dentist for a recommendation.