Treating Gingivit

Gingivitis is a condition which is also known as bleeding gums, and refers to the swelling of the gums due to poor oral hygiene. This one of the common periodontal diseases that affects the tissues which surround the teeth and gums.

This condition, if not treated properly and in time, may lead to more serious gum problems like periodontitis and will ultimately lead to the further damage of bone and tooth loss as well. A lot of individuals already have this condition, but may not be aware of it because early stage gum diseases like this are seldom painful.

Common Symptoms And Causes of Gingivitis

Bleeding while brushing, painful, reddened, swollen gums and tender gums, bad breath and bad taste in the mouth are some of the common symptoms of gingivitis, and mainly caused by local irritants. Bacteria, plaque and food particles that gather between the gums and the teeth cause this disease.

Although these accumulations could be quite small, the toxic chemicals produced by these bacteria cause the inflammation of gums. Aside from plaque, other major reasons for this condition viral and fungal infections, use of drugs, hormonal changes during pregnancy and puberty, poor nutrition, medication and others.

Effective Herbal Treatments For This Disease

- Grapefruit

This fruit is Vitamin C-rich and has lots of flavonoids, which help strengthen the body's resistance to infections. A lot of natural dental products today contain grapefruit seed extract, that serves as a powerful antioxidant in fighting gum diseases.

- Mustard Oil

Fill a tablespoon of mustard oil and add a teaspoon of common salt to it. Using the forefinger, take a small amount of this mixture and massage the gums gently in upward, downward and circular strokes. Massage the gums for 30 seconds and then gargle with warm water, and do this 2-3 times a day.

- Cranberry

Many health researchers have noted that cranberry helps in preventing bacteria that cause plaque from sticking on the surface of your teeth, which aids in stopping gum diseases on its track. Individuals suffering from this disease can try toothpaste with cranberry extract or drink cranberry juice daily, but need to take it without sugar.

- Echinacea

This potent herb aids in boosting the body's immune system and suppressing bacterial attacks such as gum diseases. It also help soothe mouth ulcers and reduces gum swelling.

- Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is seen as one of the most effective herbs in treating gum disease naturally. Aloe Vera reduces gum inflammation and bleeding, heals sores and eradicates mouth bacteria. It has proven antiseptic qualities that help in preventing and curing mild and severe gum diseases.

- You may also use a mouthwash containing sage oil, peppermint oil, menthol, chamomile tincture. You could also use toothpastes that contain sage oil, peppermint oil etc.

Gum disease usually takes place when plaque on teeth builds up below the gum line and forms into tartar. These two carry bacteria that can infect gums and damage tissues and bones around the teeth.

For preventing this, daily brushing, flossing and getting regular visits to the dentist help a lot. Individuals may also try using natural gum disease products, because these contain natural ingredients that curb the onset of bacterial infection by eliminating plaque.