If you have gum disease, your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth and you may have bad breath. Guava leaves have long been an effective treatment used to manage oral hygiene. Several studies have found the antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of guava leaf mouthwash to have a positive effect on controlling plaque. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, such as extreme pain or bleeding — or if your gingivitis isn’t improving with the natural remedies — see your doctor or dentist. If left untreated, gingivitis can cause more serious health problems. Studies have also shown that CoQ10 gels help reduce gum bleeding and boost levels of antioxidant enzymes in the gums of people with periodontal disease (35, 36).
If you’re allergic to any of these natural substances, you should avoid using them for your periodontitis treatment. Ask your healthcare professional for advice on whether you should take supplements. In rare cases, ANUG can lead to gangrene affecting the lips and cheeks. If you develop gangrene, you may need to have the dead tissue removed. You should always read the instructions before using mouthwash.
A person with an abscess may experience painful swelling and discharge of pus in the mouth. I’m on a mission to empower people everywhere with the same evidence-based, easy-to-understand dental health advice that my patients get. Those were one of the key gum disease fighting nutrients listed above. Gum disease is difficult to treat and reverse without accurate information and much of what most people have been told actually does more harm than good. If you make small, conscious decisions every day, you can save your oral health. Dr. B created a great DIY recipe for toothpaste specifically for healthier gums.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious condition that affects the tissues and bones that support your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues. Here are some common signs of gum disease:
Your dentist may clean your teeth, and you may be referred to a periodontist. In some cases, they may prescribe medicated mouthwash or antibiotics. The results of one 2015 study suggest that turmeric gel is able to effectively prevent plaque and gingivitis. Sage has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may also help heal swollen gums and treat the infection. Researchers in a 2015 study found that sage mouthwash significantly lowered the number of bacteria that cause dental plaque. Participants in the study were able to rinse with the solution for up to 60 seconds without experiencing any irritation.
Signs of Gum Disease
Early diagnosis and treatment help prevent complications, such as tooth or tissue loss. Not only is green tea high in catechins, but it’s also been found to have an inverse relationship with periodontal disease. One study that analyzed 940 men found there was an inverse association between green tea consumption and periodontal disease. Meaning those that drink more green tea have a lower chance of developing gum disease.
Omega-3s are great for you because they are anti-inflammatory but also have an inverse relationship with gum disease. You need to increase your intake of each of these important nutrients if you want to tackle your gum disease head-on. On the other hand, you’ll support your oral microbiome even more effectively if you eat less harmful foods.
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Swollen or tender gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
If you’re thinking of using tea tree oil for gum health, choose a toothpaste that contains this essential oil as an ingredient. Ingesting undiluted tea tree oil (or using homemade tea tree oil tooth remedies) can be toxic. If you develop gingivitis and don’t have the plaque or tartar (hardened plaque) removed from your teeth, the condition may get worse and lead to periodontitis. If you’re having surgery or root planing, you may be given antibiotics (medication to treat infections). The dental hygienist will scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth using special instruments, then polish your teeth to remove marks or stains.
Preventing Gum Disease
Prevention is key when it comes to gum disease. Here are some tips to help keep your gums healthy:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of developing gum disease.
- Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help keep your gums healthy.
Treatment for Gum Disease
If you suspect you have gum disease, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Treatment options may include:
- Deep cleaning: Your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
- Antibiotics: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair damaged tissue or bone.
Don’t ignore the signs of gum disease. By taking proactive steps to prevent and treat gum disease, you can protect your oral health and overall well-being.
