Bleeding when brushing, red gums, painful or swollen, these are the symptoms of gingivitis. This inflammation of the gums is generally due to poor oral hygiene, which promotes bacterial proliferation in the mouth, a disease such as diabetes, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause, or certain drugs. To help you get rid of gingivitis, here are the top 10 remedies to cleanse your gums and preserve them.
10 effective remedies for gingivitis:
1 - Sea salt:
Rich in minerals, antiseptic and antibacterial, it helps to cleanse the gums and treat inflammation by eliminating pathogenic bacteria. It is enough to dissolve a teaspoon in a glass of water and to rinse the mouth for 30 seconds, twice a day, until disappearance of the inflammation.
2 - Tea bags:
Full of antioxidants, tea is also a very effective remedy against gingivitis. In a glass of boiling water, dip a tea bag for a few seconds, then remove it and let it cool. Apply it on the inflamed area for 5 minutes, several times a day, until relief of symptoms.
3 - Reducing stress:
Reducing the ability of the immune system to fight infections, stress is considered one of the risk factors for gum inflammation. Keeping it under control is therefore essential to the health of the gums.
4 - Pure honey:
Antibacterial and powerful antiseptic, this natural sweetener is very beneficial for the health of the gums. Massage a small amount on your painful gums after brushing, to relieve them and reduce their inflammation.
5 - Cranberry juice:
Containing a large amount of polyphenols, cranberry juice is highly recommended in case of oral infections. Prepare it fresh and sugar free, then drink 120ml a day to prevent buildup of bacteria in the mouth.
6 - A paste of salt and lemon:
To boost the benefits of salt against gingivitis, combine them with the anti-inflammatory virtues of lemon. For this, prepare a paste by mixing a little salt with a few drops of lemon, then apply it on your gums for a few minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. Repeat several times a day.
7 - Vitamin C:
In addition to boosting the immune system, this vitamin has antioxidant properties that promote cell renewal, helps strengthen connective tissue and promotes the regeneration of bones that may be damaged by untreated gingivitis. So increase your intake of vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges, kiwi, strawberries, etc.
8 - Vitamin D:
Having an effective anti-inflammatory action, ensuring a sufficient intake of vitamin D is strongly recommended to fight against various inflammations, including that of the gums. Try to expose yourself to the sun, at least 15 to 20 minutes, twice a week, and to consume foods high in vitamin D, such as salmon, egg yolk and cod liver oil .
9 - Sodium bicarbonate:
Known for its virtues to whiten teeth and fight bad breath, bicarbonate of soda is also advisable in case of gingivitis. Its antibacterial and alkalizing properties eliminate pathogenic bacteria and reduce buccal acidity. Mix a teaspoon in a glass of water and use it to rinse your mouth for several seconds. You can also prepare a paste to brush your teeth, once a week to the maximum.
10 - Stop Smoking:
In smokers, the risk of suffering from gingivitis is 3 to 6 times higher than normal. Nicotine in cigarettes reduces tissue oxygen concentration, which promotes the proliferation of anaerobic bacteria and decreases the diameter of the blood vessels irrigating the gums, thus reducing their ability to fight bacteria and plaque.
Advice :
To reduce your risk of gingivitis, brush your teeth vertically, from the gum to the teeth, and maintain an optimal level of hydration in the mouth, because the saliva has a powerful antibacterial effect. However, if the symptoms persist, it is strongly recommended to consult a dentist.