Top Home Remedies for Periodontal Disease

Last updated Wednesday, December 13th, 2023

Gum health is a critical aspect of overall oral health, yet it often goes overlooked. Periodontal disease, a common gum infection, affects millions of people worldwide, causing inflammation, pain, and even tooth loss if left untreated. But what if there was a way to address this issue using natural remedies and proper oral hygiene practices? This blog post will explore effective home remedies for periodontal disease, brushing and flossing techniques, and dietary recommendations to help you maintain healthy gums and prevent periodontal disease.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is an infection of the gums. Left untreated, it can cause individuals to develop gum disease symptoms such as:

• inflammation
• pain
• sensitivity
• bleeding
• receding gums
• tooth decay

Poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of periodontal disease, leading to inflammation and sore gums, an indication of gingivitis.

Prompt treatment of periodontitis is needed to prevent tooth loss and destruction of bone and gum tissue. To treat gum disease, various gum disease treatment options are available, such as:

• Utilizing a medicated mouthwash or toothpaste
• Removing accumulated plaque and tartar on teeth and below the gum line
• Seeking professional treatment to extract tartar

Understanding periodontal disease and its symptoms enables you to take steps to maintain dental health and halt further deterioration.

The Importance of Oral Hygiene in Preventing Periodontal Disease

Good oral hygiene is vital in preventing periodontal disease. Proper oral care not only helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums but also prevents gum disease from developing if left unaddressed. To achieve overall oral health, it is recommended that individuals brush their teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit a dentist at least once a year.

We will now detail specific brushing and flossing techniques that aid in gum protection and prevent periodontal disease.

Brushing Techniques for Gum Health

Correct brushing techniques are vital in preventing periodontal disease by aiding in the removal of plaque, which is a primary source of tooth decay and gum disease. For optimal gum health, it is recommended to use a sonic or electric toothbrush, such as the Philips Sonicare 3 Series Gum Health, Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 5100, or Oral-B Pro 1000.

Brushing at a 45-degree angle is beneficial for gum health as it enables the bristles to reach the gumline more efficiently, effectively eliminating plaque accumulation and promoting gum recovery. To perform gentle circular motions while brushing, apply gentle pressure and brush in a circular motion, ensuring that you effectively remove plaque and food particles from your teeth.

Do not forget to brush your teeth twice a day to prevent gum disease and ensure the best gum health.

Flossing Tips to Protect Your Gums

Flossing is another essential aspect of maintaining gum health, as it assists in eliminating plaque and food particles from between the teeth and beneath the gum line. The most effective flossing techniques for gum health involve curving the floss carefully around the base of each tooth, reaching beneath the gumline, and avoiding any forceful or jerky movements. It is suggested to floss once daily for optimal gum health.

Oral-B Glide Pro-Health and Cocofloss Coconut-Oil Infused Woven Dental Floss are highly recommended for their ability to easily slide between teeth and effectively remove debris, thus promoting gum health. To properly curve floss around a tooth, follow these steps:

1. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers.
2. Guide it between your teeth using a zig-zag motion.
3. Curve it in a C-shape around each tooth.
4. Slide the floss beneath the gum line and move it up and down to remove plaque or food particles.
5. Repeat the process for each tooth.

Top Natural Remedies for Periodontal Disease

 

Several natural remedies, along with correct oral hygiene practices, can aid in the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease. Herbal mouthwashes, oil pulling, and soothing gels are some of the natural remedies that can provide relief from gum inflammation and improve overall oral health.

Here is a more detailed look at these remedies and their benefits for those suffering from periodontal disease.

Herbal Mouthwashes

 

Herbal mouthwashes such as:

• Lemongrass
• Tea tree oil
• Sage
• Guava leaf

can help reduce plaque and inflammation associated with periodontal disease. Lemongrass oil mouthwash has been demonstrated to possess antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which may aid in controlling plaque and improving gum health.

Sage mouthwash is efficient in decreasing the number of Streptococcus mutans in dental plaque, a harmful bacteria causing plaque. It also has potential in alleviating inflammatory signs of intra-oral mucosa and gingiva.

Tea tree oil mouthwash, made by combining 10 drops of peppermint essential oil, 6 drops of tea tree essential oil, and 1 cup of purified or distilled water, has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help in healing mouth ulcers and reducing dental pain. However, it is important to be cautious when using herbal mouthwashes, as they may result in a mild mouth burning sensation in some individuals.

Oil Pulling with Coconut and Arimedadi Oils

Oil pulling is a traditional Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in the mouth for up to 20 minutes to help promote oral hygiene by reducing plaque and bacteria. Studies have demonstrated that Arimedadi oil pulling can prevent plaque build-up and reduce the symptoms of gingivitis. This technique has significant potential in enhancing oral health in the long run..

To improve oral health through coconut oil pulling, follow these steps:

1. Take approximately 1 teaspoon of coconut oil (or sesame oil) in your mouth.
2. Swish the oil around in your mouth for approximately 20 minutes. Do not swallow the oil; just move it around your mouth.
3. After 20 minutes, spit out the oil.
4. Rinse your mouth with water.
5. Brush your teeth as usual.

It is advised to abstain from using Arimedadi oil to prevent further complications of sinusitis.

Soothing Gels: Aloe Vera and Turmeric

Soothing gels like aloe vera and turmeric can help prevent plaque and gingivitis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. To use aloe vera as a mouth rinse, mix 1 teaspoon of pure aloe vera gel with 8 ounces of water and swish the mixture in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out.

Turmeric gel can be made by:

1. Mixing 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with enough water to form a paste.
2. Applying the paste directly onto your gums using cotton balls.
3. Leaving it on for approximately 10 minutes.
4. Rinsing your mouth with cool water.

Repeat this process twice a day to experience the anti-inflammatory and healing benefits of turmeric gel.

Dietary Recommendations for Healthy Gums

 

A nutritious diet containing essential vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can help sustain gum health and avert periodontal disease. Consuming carbohydrates can facilitate the proliferation of bacteria in the oral cavity, which may contribute to gum disease.

Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Calcium, and Iron have been identified as vitamins and minerals that support gum health and aid in the prevention of periodontal disease. Foods rich in these nutrients include bananas (potassium), carrots (vitamin A), and oranges (vitamin C). Lean proteins such as poultry and fish, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce gum inflammation and impede the development of periodontal disease.

When to Seek Professional Help

Despite the effectiveness of home remedies and oral hygiene practices in addressing periodontal disease, seeking professional help becomes a necessity if symptoms persist or the condition worsens. In cases of severe pain, bleeding, or unresponsive gingivitis, professional dental intervention is necessary.

A dentist’s treatment plan for gingivitis or periodontitis typically includes medicated mouthwashes, deep cleanings, and more frequent dentist visits for cleanings and examinations. Seeking professional help when needed can help prevent tooth decay and loss, ensuring a healthy smile for the future.

What are the primary causes of periodontal disease?

How often should I brush and floss my teeth to maintain gum health?

What natural remedies can help treat periodontal disease?

What role does diet play in maintaining gum health?

When should I seek professional help for periodontal disease?