Gum infection is an inflammation of the gum tissue that, left untreated, can damage the tissues and bones that support teeth. Symptoms include red and swollen gums that bleed when you brush your teeth. Other symptoms include bad breath and pus around the gum line.
The bacteria that cause gum disease live inside the sticky gunk called plaque that sticks to your teeth. Heavy plaque buildup attracts more dangerous bacteria that can lead to gingivitis and other dental problems like periodontitis.
Saltwater Rinse
Saltwater rinse is a traditional at-home oral health remedy that can help prevent gum disease. It is also a great way to freshen your breath, cleanse areas your toothbrush cannot reach, and promote healing after dental procedures.
It is recommended that you mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and then swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. You should repeat this process two to three times a day.
Although a saltwater rinse can inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation, it does not cure infections. You will need to seek professional medical or dental intervention if you have a serious infection. However, a regular saltwater rinse can help ease discomfort until you get treatment from a periodontist.
Green Tea
Studies have shown that drinking green tea daily can help to fight gum disease. The phenolic antioxidants found in green tea, called catechins, can kill bacteria that cause infection and bad breath.
Mild gum infections, known as gingivitis, can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. Infection by the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis can destroy soft tissue and break down teeth. It can also lead to major dental damage like tooth loss and jawbone degradation.
A lukewarm mug of green tea can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation from gum infection. Drinking a few cups daily can also help to prevent future gum infection. This is because the antioxidants found in green tea can inhibit inflammatory reactions throughout the body, including those that occur in the mouth.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a common household item with antiseptic properties that kill harmful bacteria. It is commonly used to clean cuts and scrapes, but it can also help with gum infection.
It can be helpful to rinse with a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. This helps eliminate harmful bacteria, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain from infected gums.
However, it is important to note that hydrogen peroxide can only provide temporary relief from symptoms, and cannot cure a gum infection. Professional dental treatment is required to treat the underlying cause of the gum infection, such as a damaged tooth or gum pocket. This may involve root canal therapy, drainage of an abscess, or tooth extraction.
Garlic
Garlic is a commonly used ingredient in food around the world. It is believed to have anti-fungal properties that help fight gum disease. It also helps to kill bacteria and boosts the immune system.
In vitro and in vivo studies suggest that allyl sulfides (DATS, DADS), diallyl sulfide, allicin and other bioactive compounds of garlic have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-viral activity against human oral pathogens. Garlic extract can inhibit the growth of Candida albicans by causing cytoplasmic leakage, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing cell invasion, migration and motility.
It is reported that ethanol-based garlic extract can protect mice from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating oxidative stress and lipid metabolism and can suppress the growth of prostate cancer, Hep-G2, PC-3 and MCF-7 cells by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting the cell cycle.
Turmeric
The anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties of curcumin make it a natural treatment for gum disease. It helps reduce swelling and kills the bacteria that cause gum infections. It also assists in the healing of damaged tissue.
Add turmeric to your meals to reap these benefits. But be sure to use whole turmeric as opposed to isolated curcumin. This is because it contains other nutrients that can help your body absorb and use the active compounds in the spice.
Other natural treatments for gum infection include a healthy diet, which should contain lots of calcium, vitamin C and folic acid. You can find these nutrients in greens, citrus fruits and dairy. You can also supplement your diet with a chewable dietary pill that provides these nutrients.