Preventive measures against gingivitis and periodontitis are most beneficial, but if gum disease is caught in its early stages, a number of natural remedies are available that may reverse the effects to some degree. Vitamins C and D, herbal packs, gum massage and different types of toothpaste all have potential to help.
Effects
Gum disease starts with plaque on teeth, which can begin forming as soon as four hours after brushing. Plaque is a sticky material that contains bacteria and causes tooth decay. If the plaque is not removed, it begins to harden and eventually turns into tartar. Tartar produces toxins that cause chronic gum inflammation, a condition named gingivitis. Gingivitis can further lead to periodontitis, where the bones supporting the teeth become irritated and damaged. Periodontitis can cause bone loss and loose teeth.
Periodontal disease has even been shown to create a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and can worsen type 2 diabetes.
Prevention/Solution
The main preventive measure against gum disease is flossing. People should floss their teeth at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing cannot reach everywhere that floss can.
An added helpful measure is drinking cranberry juice, because this juice prevents bacteria from sticking to teeth and thereby reduces plaque build-up.
Warning
Tobacco smoking is a significant cause of periodontal disease, and a study published in the Journal of Periodontology, perio.org, found that it is more likely for smokers to have advanced gum disease than people who have never smoked. The more cigarettes a person smoked per day also was connected with a greater incidence of gum disease. Smoking interferes with healing and makes a person more susceptible to inflammation and infection.
Potential
Several natural remedies are available to reverse the effects of gum disease to one degree or another, especially if the problem is caught early. The best place to begin is with nutrition and general health. Natural health practitioners recommend appropriate intake of vitamins C and D to heal gum disease. A beneficial amount of vitamin D can be achieved simply by spending 10 or 15 minutes in sunshine twice a week. Vitamin C intake should begin with eating plenty of fruit, and grapefruit has been found to be especially effective in providing vitamin C. Vitamin C supplements are good also, although the chewable form is too acidic for teeth.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps repair connective fibers and regenerate bones. Vitamin D is an anti-inflammatory substance.
Types
Herbal packs can help heal gum disease. Seeing an herbalist for a specific mix is recommended. Aloe, licorice root, powdered alum, turmeric, willow bark, and vitamin E are substances typically used in oral healing packs.
Brushing teeth with salt and powdered alum also can help heal gums. Alum, salt, and turmeric can be combined and used as a gum massager.
Features
Tea tree oil gel can reduce gingivitis, and co-enzyme q10, a naturally occurring antioxidant, has to help repair gum tissue. Toothpastes with these substances are available at natural food and health food stores.
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