Gum Disease Causes, Symptoms, Remedies

Gum disease is the infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. Also known as periodontal disease, it serves as one of the major causes of tooth loss in adults. Gingivitis is the swelling of the gums or the gingiva, which is evidenced by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. The following are the causes, signs and symptoms, and home remedies for gum disease.

Causes

Gums disease is mainly caused by lack of oral hygiene. According to National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), the condition is caused by bacteria, which form a sticky and colorless plaque on teeth. While brushing and flossing the teeth help remove plaque from the teeth surface, the plaque that is unremoved from the teeth can harden and form tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing. Instead, tartar can be removed through professional cleaning, which is done by a dentist.

As per Mouth Healthy, risk factors for gum disease development include genetics, poor oral hygiene, crooked teeth, smoking, pregnancy, diabetes, and medications.

Signs and Symptoms

Gum disease presents a number of symptoms. According to NIDCR, these include red or swollen gums, tender r bleeding gums, painful chewing, receding gums or longer appearing teeth, sensitive teeth, loose teeth, and halitosis or bad breath that does not go away.

Home Remedies

While medications and some procedures are indicated for gum diseases, some home remedies can also be done to manage the condition.

Garlic and Turmeric

Garlic and turmeric stand as two agents that act as remedies for gum disease. According to Natural Society, they both have antibacterial properties, which help prevent the formation of plaque and tartar on the teeth surface. In addition, turmeric also has an anti-inflammatory effect. According to the publication, both ingredients are made into a paste, which is used like a toothpaste. After that, the teeth are rinsed with water.

Green Tea

Another remedy for gum disease is green tea. According to Humans Are Free, green tea is rich in antioxidants, which help the body get rid of free radicals that lead to periodontal disease, which then leads to receding gums. As per the publication, green tea has the antioxidants catechins, which help in treating periodontal disease. As antioxidants, catechins boost the bond between the gums and the teeth; thus, it can also prevent loose teeth. Moreover, green tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce gum swelling, which contributes to the development of oral diseases. As per the publication, the person just has to drink a cup of green tea every morning.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is another way to manage gum disease. According to Top 10 Home Remedies, the vinegar has acetic acid, which helps prevent enamel demineralization and reduce plaque accumulation, in addition to its antibacterial properties. As per a 2014 study published in the International Journal of Advanced Health Sciences, as cited by the publication, plaque dissolution was also significant in vinegar or four percent acid, as compared to glycerin and distilled water. As per the publication, two teaspoons of white vinegar is mixed with a teaspoon of salt in half cup of warm water. Then, the person rinses his mouth with the mixture one to two times a day.

While gum disease is not as severe as other diseases like cancer, it still deteriorates the condition of a person’s mouth and it may also lead to more serious disorders like a more serious infection and tooth loss. Thus, it is vital to seek consult from a dentist for proper assessment, planning, intervention, education, and evaluation.

 

 

Source: yaletowndental.com

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