Reduce Gum Recession with These Natural Remedies
Three out of every four adults have some form of periodontal (gum) disease. This includes receding gums.
The numbers are indeed staggering! Receding
gums is a condition whereby the gums pull back from the tooth surface,
exposing the root surfaces of the teeth. It is a serious consequence
that often arises due to poor oral health, and may lead to tooth loss.
Yet, many people are unaware that their gums may be receding until they
have reached a noticeable level. Fortunately, it can be treated,
preventing any further damage. Below are eight natural home remedies you
can try for receding gums, helping to stop the problem and promote
better overall gum health.
Green Tea
Packed with antioxidants, green tea helps
in the prevention of a multitude of diseases. Consuming green tea
regularly may also decrease the damage caused by receding gums, by
reducing gum inflammation and aiding in killing bacteria in the oral
cavity.
Use: Drink one cup of green tea each morning.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil's microbial properties make it an excellent remedy for
receding gums, while also fighting bacteria-related gum diseases. It
helps rid the teeth and gums of germs and food particles, preventing
tooth decay and further gum issues.
Use: Use virgin coconut oil on a daily basis as you would a regular
mouthwash, swishing it around in your mouth for 30 seconds after
brushing.
Sesame Oil
Plaque buildup and toxins often cause
receding gums. To minimize these effects, sesame oil can be used to help
reduce plaque and remove toxins in the oral cavity. To encourage better
absorption, heat the oil slightly. Warmed sesame oil helps to prevent
dental decay and gum recession, providing a protective coating on the
gums.
Use: Use a quarter of a cup as a mouthwash, swishing the oil around in
your mouth for 30 seconds before brushing your teeth.
Myrrh
Myrrh is a well known essential oil that helps stop gum recession,
preventing damage to the gums and teeth and preventing root exposure. It
is also helpful in strengthening the gums.
Use: Myrrh can be made into a paste by adding a couple of drops to some
aloe vera gel, or it can be used as a rinse, combining a couple of drops
in some water.
Aloe Vera
This healing gel is best known for its
antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, preventing infections and
damaged gums.
Use: Brush your teeth with the gel. You may opt for an aloe vera base
toothpaste, or simply apply the gel to your teeth and gums after regular
brushing and flossing.
Eucalyptus
This essential oil prevents gum disease and tooth decay. Eucalyptus oil
kills germs and helps prevent gum recession. It is also beneficial in
reducing gum swelling due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Use: Dilute the oil in water. Dip a
soft-bristled toothbrush into the mix using it to massage the gums for a
couple of minutes. Doing so will reduce gum recession and stimulate new
tissue growth.
Clove
Since time immemorial, cloves have been
used as a remedy to reduce the effects of oral infections and damaged or
decaying teeth. Clove oil is a potent antimicrobial, antiseptic and
antifungal agent that cleanses the oral cavity and stimulates the repair
and growth of any damaged tissues, including receding gums.
Use: When used frequently, clove oil, stops bacterial action and
disinfects the mouth. Massage into the gums once a day using a
soft-bristled toothbrush.
Lemon Oil
Lemon oil is best known for its antibacterial and mild antiseptic
properties. In its ability to kill off bacteria, lemon oil works
exceptionally well in preventing tooth decay and gum recession. Due to
its acidic properties, however, lemon oil cannot be used frequently.
Use: Combine an ounce of virgin olive oil and the juice from one-fourth
of a fresh lemon. The mixture can be used twice a day. Swish in your
mouth once in the morning and once in the afternoon.