Gum pain is an unpleasant issue that occurs due to several reasons. Sometimes it could be as simple as brushing too hard, canker sores or having dentures or braces. Gingivitis is an inflammation in the gum which is the most common causes of gum disease.
It develops when plaque made of bacteria gets deposited on the teeth because of the sugar-laden and starches in the food. It’s important to address the plague before it becomes tartar.
Gum disease is quite common in women caused due to hormonal changes, pregnancy or menopause. In very rare cases, gum pain may be a sign of more severe oral problems like thrush, gingivitis or periodontitis.
Some of the other contributing factors to the development of gum disease include:
Medical conditions like cancer, HIV, and diabetes
Smoking or chewing tobacco
Poor oral hygiene
A family history of dental diseases
Certain medications
If left untreated, gum disease can cause intense toothache and other oral problems like cavities that result in tooth loss caused due to the destructions of the adjacent tissue. It is best to seek medical help immediately if you are dealing with severe cases of gum disease.
Dental Care
It is pivotal to practice proper dental care which includes:
- Brush and floss teeth at least twice daily or after every meal
- Go for an electric toothbrush to increase cleaning potential
- It is a must to replace the toothbrush once in three months
- Opt for a natural mouthwash
- Regular check-ups with the dentist at least once a year
- Restrict smoking and tobacco chewing
- Limit intake of sugary foods
Foods To Add
The kind of food you eat can greatly affect your dental health in several ways.
A diet low in refined carbohydrates and high in vitamin C, D, Fibre and omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial to lower the inflammation of gums and avert the symptoms. Add plenty of fresh fruits coloured veggies and nuts to maintain your dental health.
Mild to moderate cases of gum disease can be very well treated and even reversed by trying some of these amazing natural remedies.
5 Effective Home Remedies
Salt Water Gargle
Salt water rinse is the most beneficial home remedy in curing gums inflamed by gingivitis. Salt has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that ease swelling and fight bacteria-causing infections. Regular salt water gargling can help heal inflamed gums, reduce pain, combat bad breath and remove food deposits
How To Do
In a glass of lukewarm water add ½ teaspoon of salt and mix well. Swirl the solution in the mouth for a few seconds and spit out the solution. To get respite from gum pain repeat this 2 to 3 times a day
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera gel works well in treating gum disease owing to its strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It greatly helps in reducing the symptoms associated with gum disease when applied topically or used as a natural mouth floss.
Also Read: Aloe Vera: Medicinal Uses, Benefits For Skin And Hair, Supplements And Recipes
How To Do
In a bowl add 2-3 tsp. of aloe Vera gel whisk well add little water to get the right consistency. Apply the gel on to the inflamed gums, let it stay for 10 minutes and rinse off with water. You can also use this as a mouth rinse by adding enough water. Repeat this process twice daily to alleviate pain.
Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil known for its astringent property helps in warding off bacteria from the dental cavity and averts the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It also exhibits inhibiting effects on the bacteria causing gum disease, prevents plaque formation, makes your teeth healthier and strengthens gum.
Also Read: Lemongrass: 5 Therapeutic Reasons Why This Aromatic Tea Is Awesome
How To Do
In a cup of water add 2- 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil and mix well, swirl this solution for up to 50 seconds and spit out. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for best result.
Turmeric Honey Gel
This natural herb is well-known for its strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties which are valuable in preventing plaque and gingivitis. The active ingredient curcumin in turmeric is a potent antioxidant that helps to heal bleeding and reddening of the gums. While honey helps in combatting oral bacteria linked with plaque formation.
How To Do
Rinse the mouth thoroughly, make a paste of turmeric powder by mixing it with honey, apply the gel on gums, and let it stay for 15 minutes and swirl the water around the mouth and spit it out. Repeat this process twice daily for an instant result.
Coconut Oil Pulling
Coconut oil imbued with vast reserves of lauric acid exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Regular oil pulling using coconut oil remarkably lessens the plaque formation and improves the symptoms associated with gingivitis.
How To Do
Take about 2 tsp of coconut oil into your mouth, swish the oil well around the mouth for about 20 minutes and spit the oil out. Rinse your mouth well with water and brush your teeth.Tea Bags
Teabags work very well to cure painful gums. Not all but some teas have strong astringent properties. Pick a tea rich in anti-inflammatory such as green tea, ginger tea, chamomile tea, or hibiscus tea.
How to Do?
Soak a tea bag in boiling water for at least eight to ten minutes. Let the tea bag cool a bit. Carefully, apply on the affected gums.
Salt And Clove Paste
Clove is another natural ingredient that contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Clove helps to reduce the pain and inflammation of your gums and cure other oral ailments.
How To Do?
Make a paste using crushed clove and mix it with water and Himalayan salt. Apply on your affected area with a cotton swab and leave it for 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can also rinse the mouth with clove water. Repeat the process three to four times a day.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its natural anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties and will help to soothe mild to severe pain in the gums.
How To Do?
Drop a few drops of tea tree oil in a glass of water and swirl it inside your mouth as a mouthwash. Repeat about thrice a day. A toothpaste that contains tea tree oil can also be used in the long run to soothe gum pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Gum Disease Be Reversed?
Generally, the early stage of gum disease can be reversed with proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing and professional dental cleanings. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which can cause irreversible damage to the gums and bone.
What Home Remedies Can Help Manage Gum Disease?
A few home remedies may help manage mild gum disease:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. This helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
- Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, then spit it out. Oil pulling is a highly valued natural remedy that can reduce plaque and bacteria.
- Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water and use it as a mouthwash. It helps to kill bacteria and promote healing.
- Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your toothpaste or mix it with water to make a mouthwash. It has antibacterial properties that can help combat gum disease.
- Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected region in the gums. Its anti-inflammatory traits can soothe inflamed gums.
How Effective are Home Remedies for Treating Gum Disease?
Home remedies can help manage the symptoms of mild gum disease and support overall gum health, but they are not a substitute for professional dental care. For more severe cases, it's crucial to visit a dentist for proper treatment, which may include deep cleaning, medications, or surgery.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease at Home?
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss regularly to remove plaque and dirt between teeth.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to get rid of bacteria.
- Eat a balanced and wholesome diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
- Regular follow-up with a dentist for checkups and cleanings.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes, evidence reveals that gum disease has been associated with various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and complications during pregnancy. Maintaining your gums healthy is vital for overall well-being.
How Often should I Visit a Dentist if I have Gum Disease?
If you have gum disease, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits, such as every 3-4 months, for cleanings and monitoring. Regular checkups can help prevent the progression of the disease.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/gum-disease
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279593/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362817571_Medicinal_Plants_Used_as_an_Alternative_to_Treat_Gingivitis_and_Periodontitis
