Gum disease—also called periodontal disease, gingivitis and periodontitis—is an infection of the tissues and bone that support your teeth, and it’s something we see often at our Mesa dental clinic.
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth when you go too long without brushing. Plaque constantly forms on our teeth, but is removed with good oral hygiene—this is the best way to prevent gum disease. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar or calculus. Once tartar forms, it’s much more difficult to remove and can only be removed by a dental professional.
If gum disease isn’t treated, it can damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, eventually causing receding gums and tooth loss. Gum disease is also linked to other serious health conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
Gum disease ultimately the result of inflammation, which is the body’s natural way of fighting off infection. However, in the case of gum disease, the gum inflammation response is out of control, causing damage to healthy tissue.
It’s important to know that in the early stages of gum disease, you can reverse the problem by thoroughly cleaning the teeth and gums. Once the body knows it is no longer infected, the gum tissue inflammation will naturally subside.
However, if left untreated, early gum disease (gingivitis) can progress into advanced gum disease (periodontitis), which is not reversible—although it is treatable.
At-Home Natural Remedies for Gum Disease
Fortunately, there are a number of home remedies for gum disease that promote oral health. Here are some of the best:
1. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes to remove bacteria and toxins. It can have varying degrees of success, but it’s definitely worth a try!
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that can be used to treat gum disease. Simply add a few drops to your toothbrush and brush as usual. You can also add a drop or two to a cup of water to create tea tree oil mouthwash.
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for healthy gums (and teeth). You can increase your intake by eating plenty of citrus fruits and dark leafy greens, or you can take a supplement.
4. Salt Water Rinse
A salt water rinse is a simple and effective way to cleanse your mouth and kill bacteria. Just mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of water and swish it around your mouth for a minute or two. Spit it out and rinse with water.
Holistic Dentistry Treatments for Gum Disease
If at-home remedies are not working, you may need to seek out additional treatments. Here are some holistic dentistry options for gum disease:
1. Dental Cleanings
Regular Mesa dental cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, keeping them healthy.
2. Ozone Treatments
Ozone therapy is a holistic approach that kills bacteria and helps heal damaged gums.
3. Dentist-prescribed Probiotic Treatments
Gum disease often results from an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth. Probiotic treatments can help restore this balance, promoting gum health.
Suffering from Gum Disease? Elite Smiles Can Help!
At Elite Smiles, we offer a wide range of holistic dentistry options to help you correct gum disease and promote optimal oral health. Our experienced team of dentists and hygienists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that’s right for your needs. To learn more about our services, schedule an appointment!
