Treating Gingivitis Naturally
August 4, 2009
Gingivitis is characterized by inflammation and bleeding of the gum. The gum inflammation is caused by bacterial infection. The exact factors responsible for causing gingivitis are not quite clear.
However, accumulation of plague between teeth is thought to be the major risk factor for developing gingivitis. The bacteria present in the plague can cause swelling of the gum. The activities of the gingivitis causing bacteria, present in the tooth plague, might be stimulated by hormonal changes during puberty and pregnancy.
Certain steroids can also activate the gingivitis causing bacteria. Certain illnesses and medicinal side effects, that weaken the immune system, can make our gums vulnerable to infection.
In the early stage of bacterial infection, gingivitis is a mild painful gum problem. Hence, in the initial stage, gingivitis is often ignored. When the bacteria infect the gum, the proteins and antibodies present in the saliva work to kill the bacteria. Gum inflammation is the manifestation of the immune system’s action to destroy the bacteria. The antibodies that kill the bacteria also damage the surrounding soft tissue of the gum.
Gingivitis symptoms
Common symptoms of gingivitis are inflammation, redness, pain and bleeding of the gum. It causes bad breath. The gum becomes weak and loses its normal structure. Gingivitis increases the risk of tooth loss.
To cure as well as to prevent gingivitis, you should maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. Regular brushing, at least twice every day, and proper flossing helps to prevent plague and proliferation of bacteria. Regularly rinse your mouth with saline water. Salt is an antiseptic that kills the germs, keeping your gums healthy.
Clove is very useful for curing gum inflammation and pain. You can chew cloves or apply clove oil on the swollen gum. Add one-teaspoon sage oil in water and rinse your mouth with the solution. You can also make mouthwash by adding one teaspoon of peppermint oil or menthol in one cup of water.
Boil a handful of eucalyptus leaves in a glass of water for about fifteen minutes. Use this solution as a mouthwash to cure gingivitis. To prevent gingivitis, increase consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C and D.
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