At-Home Healing: 4 Remedies for Gingivitis

Did you know that an estimated 50% of adults in the United States currently have gingivitis? Part of its prevalence might be because it’s the earliest form of gum disease, so the symptoms are easy to miss. Although pervasive, this periodontal problem is preventable and can even be reversed if it hasn’t progressed too far.

In many cases, improving your daily dental hygiene routine can stop early gum disease in its tracks. Thankfully, you can upgrade your oral care regimen in several different ways. Read on to learn about four potential at-home remedies that help keep your mouth in good condition!

Home Remedy #1: Saltwater Rinse

A scientific study conducted in 2016 demonstrated that saltwater rinses can effectively heal gums with gingivitis. Salt acts as a natural disinfectant and anti-inflammatory, removing germs from around teeth when used in a rinse.

You can make a saltwater solution by mixing ½ to ¾ teaspoons of salt into a glass of lukewarm water until it’s dissolved. Then, sip and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit it out and repeat until your cup is empty. You can safely repeat this process two to three times daily to soothe inflamed gums, reduce bacteria, and help ease any aches.

Home Remedy #2: Homemade Mouthwash

Another great way to prevent or reverse gingivitis is to use mouthwash after thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth. However, many commercially available products contain harsh chemicals that some patients prefer to avoid. If you’re looking for more natural alternatives, you can make your own using essential oils at home. Some herbs and oils that can be used to fight gum disease include:

• Lemongrass
• Aloe vera
• Tea tree oil
• Sage
• Guava Leaf

Home Remedy #3: Turmeric Gel

Turmeric is another natural ingredient believed to reduce symptoms of periodontal problems effectively. This yellow spice has been used in Asian cultures for hundreds of years and is believed to have many benefits. It’s an antimicrobial and anti-fungal, and when it’s applied to your gums as a gel, it can help you fight periodontal problems. You can place some on your toothbrush before scrubbing or apply it directly to the gums. Then, leave it in place for about 10 minutes before rinsing with water.

Home Remedy #4: Oil Pulling

If you’re looking to bolster your regular brushing and flossing, you might include oil pulling into your daily dental routine. This involves swirling oil in your mouth for up to 30 minutes to loosen stubborn residue buildup that can contribute to disease. You should use about two teaspoons of either coconut or arimedadi oil, which have been shown to prevent plaque. If half an hour is too long, you can begin with shorter lengths of time and gradually build up to it.

Although these methods can all support your dental health, they’re no replacement for a professional checkup and cleaning with your provider. They can spot gum disease early enough to help you treat it before it worsens!

About the Practice

Patients of Dr. Laura Philipps, DMD benefit from two dentists who work together to offer a full array of services conveniently under one roof. Dr. Pilipps and Dr. Ramos share more than two full decades of combined experience, so you can trust that your smile is in good hands. They take a whole-body approach and strive to offer individualized solutions that improve your oral condition while supporting your overall health. If you’re worried about gingivitis, you can request an appointment on the website or call (432) 570-4433.