Natural Remedies for Healthy Gums in Prescott

natural remedies for healthy gums

Natural Remedies for Healthy Gums in Prescott

Gum disease can be very serious if left untreated. It can lead to loss of teeth, bone damage, and to even more serious systemic infections in the body. Here at Prescott Dentistry, we want to give your gums their best fighting chance to stay healthy and strong! In this blog post you’ll find four natural remedies for healthy gums that you can use at home, in addition to your regular dental care with us.

1. Coenzyme Q10

CoQ10 is an antioxidant that your body produces naturally. It helps with cell growth and maintenance. When it comes to oral health, CoQ10 has been shown to reduce gingival inflammation (swelling of the gums) and protect against bacteria that can cause gingivitis. It can be taken as a supplement or it can be used topically. There are actually some toothpastes that contain this antioxidant. Food sources include organ meats, pork, beef, chicken, fatty fish, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, oranges, strawberries, soybeans, lentils, and some nuts and seeds.

2. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient ayurvedic practice. It involves swishing about 2 teaspoons of oil in the mouth for 20 minutes a day. Its effectiveness is debated, but a 2015 study found that oil pulling with coconut oil reduced plaque formation and inflammation in participants with gum disease. Coconut oil contains a compound called monolaurin, which has strong antibiotic properties and naturally occurring minerals. This is an easy, inexpensive way to protect your gums and individuals claim it leaves the mouth feeling clean too!

3. Mouthwashes

There are several mouthwashes you can make at home that can help treat gingivitis. For all of these, swish and spit and repeat up to 3 times a day.

  • Lemongrass- Dilute 2 to 3 drops of lemongrass oil in water.
  • Aloe Vera- Use pure aloe vera, undiluted.
  • Tea Tree Oil- add 3 drops of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water.

4. Turmeric Gel

Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. It helps treat plaque buildup, swelling of the gums, bleeding, and reddening. It may be labeled as curcuma gel, as curcumin is the main active component of turmeric. Apply the gel to your gums twice a day after brushing. Let it sit for 10 minutes and then rinse with water.

Using these natural remedies for healthy gums is a great way to help heal your gums from the harmful consequences of gum disease! Again, these therapies are meant to protect your gums only in conjunction with other treatments. They are not meant to replace your regular oral hygiene and routine dental visits. We also offer a number of holistic options that fight bacteria and prevent gum disease. Ask about these and other ways to keep your gums healthy at your next appointment with Prescott Dentistry!  

 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/14/2018) Pixaby