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Home Remedies for Periodontal Gum Disease

Visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings is an important part of any oral hygiene routine. It's especially critical if you suspect or know that you suffer from periodontal gum disease. You need to have this disease treated because it can have permanent effects on your teeth and your overall health. Even though professional treatment is usually needed, you can also use some home remedies to fight periodontal gum disease. They are simple measures that can be incorporated into your daily dental routine and your overall lifestyle.

  1. Definition

    • Periodontal gum disease is an infection of the gums that attacks and destroys tissue and bone. Because those tissues and bones support your teeth, this disease can cause you to lose your teeth if you allow it to go untreated. Your dentist needs to treat this disease because of its seriousness. However, you can also use some home remedies to fight periodontal disease between visits.

    Hygiene Remedies

    • Many home remedies for periodontal gum disease are centered around good dental hygiene. The Mayo Clinic recommends brushing your teeth with a soft bristled toothbrush every time you eat, including after snacks. This should be supplemented with flossing and a plaque-reducing mouthwash. You should replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if it is showing signs of wear.

    Tools

    • In stubborn cases of periodontal disease, a regular toothbrush and floss might not be effective in removing all of the plaque and tartar. An electric toothbrush will do a more thorough cleaning. You can also purchase a special tool such as a dental pick to help you clean more thoroughly between your teeth. The pick does a better job than regular dental floss because you can target specific areas.

    Diet

    • Delta Dental says that foods that contain large amounts of vitamin B-12 and vitamin C can help fight periodontal disease. You should also eat foods that are rich in calcium and folic acid. All of these nutrients support strong gums and bones and help keep them from breaking down. Avoiding refined sugar offers additional protection against periodontal disease.

    Herbal Remedies

    • AltMD says that there are several herbs you can use to fight periodontal disease because they can strengthen the gums and fight infection. These include bloodroot, myrrh and rhatany, all of which can be applied as a tincture. Plantain leaves can be used as a poultice on infected gums.

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