Natural Remedies Available to Alleviate the Effects of Gingivitis

Periodontal disease

Teeth are supported by the gums and bone. Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless “plaque” on teeth. Brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque.

Periodontal means “located around a tooth”. Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums, bone, and other tissues that surround and support the teeth. The infection begins when the body's immune system is overwhelmed.

Periodontal diseases are often classified according to their severity. They range from mild gingivitis to more severe periodontitis.

Gingivitis

It is the early stage of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth. It onsets when plaque adheres to the teeth. The accumulation of plaque causes the gums to infection. They become red, soft, and swollen and they bleed easily. Chronic gingivitis leads to receding gums and can cause permanent damage to teeth. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist.

Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated it can lead to periodontitis. In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth leaving deep spaces (known as “pockets”) where bacterial toxins and enzymes hide and cause further damage such as the destruction of the bones, the gums, and the connective tissue that support the teeth. In time the teeth loosen and fall out.

Periodontitis is often related to a deficiency of vitamins C, calcium, and bioflavonoids.

People usually don’t show signs of periodontal disease until they are in the age of 30 or 40 years. Men are more likely to have those diseases than women. Sometimes teenagers onset gingivitis.

Causes

• Genetic factors.
• Aids.
• Infrequent dental care.
• Insufficient calcium intake.
• Smoking.
• Anemia.
• Aging.
• Leukemia.
• Vitamin deficiency.
• Diabetes worsens the periodontal disease.
• Sjögren's syndrome causes decreased saliva production that can lead to periodontal disease.
• Pregnancy.
• Birth control pills.
• Steroids, antiseizure, and cancer medicines. 

Symptoms include:

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
• Receding gums or longer-appearing teeth.
• Swollen, tender, and intense red gums.
• A change in the fit of partial dentures.
• Constant bad breath.
• Dry mouth.
• Painful chewing.
• Loose teeth.
• Sensitive teeth.

Recommendations

• Eat blueberries, cherries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries.
• A diet rich in fiber.
• Avoid sugar and all refined carbohydrates.
• Eat a varied diet of fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, and meat.
• Take coenzyme Q10 daily.
• Massage the gums with your finger.
• Don’t smoke.
• Brush your teeth twice a day (with fluoride toothpaste).
• Use a new toothbrush every month.
• Take vitamin A, B-complex, C, and E.
• Take zinc and selenium.
• Avoid antibiotics.
• See a dentist every six months.
• Floss the teeth once a day at least.

Beneficial Herbs