Dental Implants: A Guide for Seniors

5 ways to banish your gum disease naturally

31 July 2015 by Jimmy Carter

Gum disease affects approximately 20% of Australian adults and is caused by tooth decay. All of the sugar that resides in your diet sticks to your teeth and the natural bacteria in your mouth feeds from it. This begins to rot your teeth and eat away at gums.

Often the first sign is spitting blood when you brush your teeth. There may be no pain or discomfort, but gum disease can wreak havoc on your mouth and is the most common cause of tooth loss. However, if caught early (when you first spit that blood), it can be easily treated. You can even treat it naturally at home.

Here are five ways to treat gum disease naturally at home.

1. Drink green tea. Green tea contains properties that fight against the bad bacteria in your mouth that causes gum disease.
2. Try oil pulling. This is an ancient technique that can help your gums to heal and keep your mouth healthy. First thing in the morning, before you brush, take a tablespoon of nut or coconut oil in your mouth and gently swish it, pulling it through your teeth. Do not gargle or swallow it, or it will make you ill. Spit the oil out and rinse thoroughly. The oil helps to remove the bad bacteria and can have the added bonus of whitening your teeth. If you have any ill effects, stop immediately.
3. Massage your gums. This will help your gums to heal and improve your circulation. Gently massage your gums by rubbing your finger against them in small circles. You can also improve your gums circulation and improve your diet by eating crunchy vegetables. The chewing action of eating those carrots or celery stimulate blood flow to your mouth and gums. The extra saliva produced when eating will also help to naturally clean your mouth and flush out the bacteria.
4. Make your own mouthwash. Shop bought mouthwash contains chemicals, so while they do often do the trick you may not want to swish that stuff around your mouth. Instead, try making your own mouthwash using a foundation of water, baking soda and peppermint oil.
5. Keep brushing. And flossing, and rinsing. It's vital that you continue a healthy oral hygiene routine while treating gum disease. Just because the gums are bleeding doesn't mean they shouldn't be cleaned. Just remember to gently brush the gums and teeth, don't scrub as this will cause further damage.

If your gums continue to bleed or you have any concerns about your dental health, talk with a dentist from a clinic like All Smiles Dental Centre to learn what else you can do.