Dental Uses for Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for medical reasons since Biblical times, according to Bill Wolfe D.D.S., N.M.D. in an article at Enhancedtoothpaste.com. The nutrients within its leaves have the ability to sooth and heal. In 1976, Wolfe came across Russian studies that showed aloe vera's use for treating gum disease. Since then, the aloe vera plant has been utilized for a variety of different dental needs.

Gum Anti-Inflammatory

• Gums can become sensitive over time from rough toothbrushes, dental floss, tooth picks, crunchy foods, dentifrice abrasion and so on. Dentifrice abrasion is the wearing away of the protective layers of an exposed root by an abrasive cleaner. According to an article at Iasc.org, Dr. Timothy E. Moore of The International Aloe Science Council wrote how aloe vera can enhance your body's defense mechanisms and soothe sore and swollen gums. Direct application to the traumatized areas will relieve the pain.

Mouth Lesions

• According to the same article at Iasc.org, Moore went on to write about mouth lesions and how they too can be treated with aloe vera. "Acute mouth lesions are improved by direct [aloe vera] application on herpetic viral lesions, aphthous ulcers, canker sores, and cracks occurring at the corners of our lips. Gum abscesses are soothed by the applications as well." During Dr. Wolfe's studies at Enhancedtoothpaste.com, he found that aloe vera gel can be just effective as Prednisolone and Indomethacin for swollen and infected gum tissue.

Dentures/Partials

• Dental patients who wear dentures or partials may experience a great deal of mouth and gum pain due to the constant rubbing caused by ill-fitted mouthpieces. "Aloe vera can also be used around dental implants to control inflammation from bacteria contamination," Moore included in his study at Iasc.org. Bill Wolfe's studies at Enhancedtoothpast.com showed that toothpaste containing aloe vera would be gentler on gums, dentures and partials than most toothpastes on the market, which contain abrasive ingredients.

Anti-Viral

• In regards to viral conditions at Iasc.com, Moore wrote, "As a periodontist utilizing aloe vera in various consistencies for the last 14 years with over 6,000 documented patients who have been treated with applications, I've observed remarkable healing, reduced edema, and pain control." He listed several disorders that can attack the mouth and gums, which all can be treated with direct application of aloe vera. Among these are Desquamative Gingivitis, acute monocytic leukemia and hematological disorders.

Extraction

• Lastly, aloe vera can soothe and heal tooth extraction wounds. When roots are exposed in the event of a wisdom tooth extraction for example, aloe vera can provide comfort for these patients suffering from dry sockets, according to Breathsofresh.com. This site also stated that aloe vera "has detoxifying elements and promotes cell growth. Research has proved that the use of Aloe Vera can speed up the healing process and therefore has great benefits in the dentistry world."