AL Fairhope Best Family Dentist

Fighting Gum Disease at Home

Gingivitis, or to non-dentist people, gum disease, is a very common condition.  Symptoms like bad breath often, red/swollen gums, bleeding gums, receding gums, and even loose tooth are all possible with gum disease.  If it isn’t treated, periodontitis can happen, leading to even further complications.

One of the main reasons a person battles gum disease is because of poor oral hygiene.  This causes the plaque to build up along and under the gum line.  When plaque builds up, bacteria attach to the tooth and gum area.

Certain factors like smoking, hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, poor nutrition, stress, medications, diabetes, and other illnesses can all contribute to gingivitis.

So now that we know what it is, it’s time to start battling it at home.  If pain is involved, one of the best ways to help relieve pain and discomfort is to rinse your mouth with warm water and salt.

Here is one great home remedy to try at home:

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide is a strong antibacterial agent that can kill germs and fight gum disease.  It also is a great way to whiten and brighten those teeth!  Use the 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (comes in brown bottles) rather than any highly concentrated solution. Al Fairhope Best Family Dentist

•  Mix hydrogen peroxide and water (equal parts).  Put it in your mouth, rinse for a few seconds, and then spit it out.  Do this a few times a week until you have seen the results you are looking for!
• Another alternative is to mix hydrogen peroxide (small portions at a time) with one teaspoon of baking soda until a paste form.  Put the paste onto the toothbrush and brush your gums and gum line.  Spit it out, and rinse your mouth.  Do this a few times a week, for a few weeks.
• You can also apply a paste of clove oil and hydrogen peroxide, leave it on for a few seconds and then spit it out. Repeat as needed.

Be careful with hydrogen peroxide.  Using it once a day is enough.  Do not swallow any solution.  Al Fairhope Best Family Dentist

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