Gingivitis is characterised by irritated gums, which may be red or bleed easily when you brush your teeth, and is associated with dental tartar and plaque around the gum margins. Gingivitis is a condition that needs immediate treatment to prevent potential tooth loss.
More teeth are lost due to gum disease and gingivitis than due to actual tooth decay. Gingivitis – in which gums bleed easily, and plaque and tartar build up along their edges – is the most common gum condition.
If gingivitis is left untreated, pus-filled pockets can develop at the base of the tooth, followed by pus accumulation and tooth loosening, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing this painful condition, but traditional remedies can be a highly effective treatment once infection has occurred.
Next, let's look at the recommendations for treating and healing gum conditions.
Antiseptic mouthwash
Conventional medicine recommends the initial use of antiseptic mouthwash and painkillers, in case of pain.
Mouthwash, as recommended by the dentist, should be used 2-3 times daily. Painkillers should also be taken as per the doctor's recommendations.
Warning: some mouthwashes may cause brown stains on teeth, which will disappear with continued use of these products.
Aromatherapy
Treat gingivitis with healing oils extracted from myrrh, thyme, fennel and tea tree.
ThymeThyme) it is antiseptic and helps to stop the infection, myrrh (Commiphora molmol) is antimicrobial, and tea tree (Tea treeStrengthens the immune system.
The use of these essential oils is as follows:
- Add a few drops to mouthwash or warm water and rinse your mouth.
- Myrrh tincture is massaged directly onto the gums to improve blood circulation.
Nutrition in gum disease healing
Fibre and nutrient content are important in the treatment and healing of gingivitis.
When you eat apples, pears, celery and raw carrots, the massage effect stimulates blood circulation to the edges of the gums and prevents the formation of bacterial plaque. However, once this condition has set in, the gums bleed easily, and consuming raw foods is painful; thus, a vicious cycle is entered.
Eat citrus fruits and fresh products made from them daily to provide an extra supply of vitamin C to your body. Avoid sugar and sugary products, and brush your teeth immediately after eating foods rich in sugar. If this is not possible, then chewing sugar-free gum for 15 minutes can be helpful.
An effective mouthwash in this situation can be obtained by adding a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water.
Homeopathic remedies
The following homeopathic remedies may be of assistance:
- Mercurius solubilis 6c For inflamed, bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, metallic taste, a wet mouth but with a feeling of thirst.
- Phosphorus 6c: For gums that have ulcerations and bleed easily, haemorrhage following tooth extractions.
- Nitric acid 6c For weak teeth, bleeding gums, mouth ulcers in the palatal area.
For their dosage, the prescriptions and recommendations of the specialist doctor will be taken into account.
Herbal remedies
Herbal mouthwashes and toothpastes help to strengthen and improve gum health.
Make a cooled and well-strained infusion, or a decoction containing medicinal plants, such as: lady's mantle, marigold, echinacea, horehound, rosemary, sage, and use it for rinsing the mouth.
Also, for brushing your teeth, use a toothpaste that contains natural extracts from these plants.
To boost your immune system, supplement your diet with natural remedies based on echinacea, royal jelly, and garlic.
Herbal remedies cannot replace proper dental care. Always inform your dentist about any herbal treatments. While chamomile and calendula have a very long history of use, some medicinal plants should be used with caution by individuals with allergies to pollen, marigolds, or chrysanthemums.
Further suggestions for gingivitis
Avoid smoking, as it can worsen gum inflammation and allow the disease to progress. Also, try to manage stress effectively, as it can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to illness.