How to reduce inflammation of the gums quickly: 7 natural and home remedies for gingivitis

The gums perform important functions for oral health: protect the roots of the teeth and jaw bones from infection and decay, hold teeth and hold them firmly in place.

When they are healthy they have a uniform pale pink color and one firm and smooth texture that fits perfectly to the contour of the teeth. Red, swollen, or painful gums indicate a problem.

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to take action, as simple gum inflammation can lead to a much more serious gum disease called periodontitis and tooth loss. How to reduce inflammation of the gums quickly? Some home remedies can be very effective.

Swollen gums: causes

There are various reasons why the gums may be inflamed, such as:

The buildup of dental plaque or tartardue to poor or ineffective dental hygiene.Gingivitis or periodontitisa chronic inflammatory gum disease that requires treatment to prevent its progression, as it can lead to tooth loss.Bacterial or viral infections.Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menstruation or menopause.toxicsuch as tobacco smoke.

A good dental hygiene It is essential to keep the gums healthy, although you must do it with an adequate technique, since excessive or too aggressive tooth brushing can also harm them.

Eight out of ten people have inflamed gums, that is, gingivitis. Most don’t even know it, because gingivitis hardly hurts. Is caused by bacteria in the oral cavity. If you don’t brush your teeth properly, bacteria will multiply because they feed on food debris left between your teeth.

These bacteria form dental plaque and produce acids and toxins that can inflame the gums, that is, gingivitis. This does not always cause bleedingbecause inflammation occurs in pockets that form between the gums and teeth, so brushing does not reach the focus of inflammation and blood is not seen when brushing teeth.

In addition to sloppy oral hygiene, inflammation of the gums also It can be caused by brushing your teeth too hard. Rubbing too hard or using bristles that are too hard can damage the gums. Wounds are a breeding ground for bacteria, which promotes inflammation and infection.

If you have sensitive gumsuse a toothbrush with soft bristles.

Symptoms of inflammation of the gums

There are some signs that indicate that the gums are inflamed. The most frequent are:

Swelling of the gums. The most obvious symptom is gum swellingwhich may stick out more than normal.redness.Intense red colour, instead of the usual pale pink.bleeding gums brushing your teeth or other contact, even if you do it gently, or flossing.soft gumsBad breath that won’t go awayYou can tell pain or tenderness when touched, when biting or chewing.

When inflammation of the gums is due to periodontal disease, there may also be bad breath either receding gumswhich can make teeth look longer than normal.

How to reduce inflammation of the gums quickly

Although there are some causes of inflammation that require deeper treatment, such as periodontitis, the following measures will help reduce inflammation of the gums and relieve pain: These are some of the most prominent:

1. Marshmallow infusion

The roots of the marshmallow plant contain substances that form mucilage. When drinking the marshmallow infusion, these mucous substances are deposited as a protective film on the mucous membranes from the mouth, throat and stomach and stay there for a long time.

To prepare the infusion:

Put 2 teaspoons of dried marshmallow flowers and leaves (you will find them in herbalists) in 250 ml of freshly boiled water. Wait 15 minutes and then strain. Drink the infusion in small sips. You can take 3 or 4 cups a day.

2. Infusion of blueberries

Blueberries have a anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect. Its infusion is used to rinse the mouth and massage the gums after brushing your teeth. You can do the massage with the brush itself, very gently, or with a finger:

Pour 1 tablespoon of dried cranberries into 1 cup of cold water. Bring it to a boil, then let it steep for 10 minutes. Use this infusion to rinse your mouth, gargle, and massage your gums after brushing your teeth.

If you want the effect to be faster, you can do the massage every hour.

3. Lemon juice

Lemon juice has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help relieve gingivitis. The acidity of the lemon prevents bacteria from multiplying and regulates the pH level in the mouth, which also relieves bad breath.

Mix the juice of half a lemon with a cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth with it, but do not swallow the mixture.

Do this rinse twice a day, but not too often. only in specific curessince the acid can attack the enamel.

4. Chamomile

The chamomile has properties anti-inflammatory and antisepticas well as analgesic effectand promotes the healing of inflamed gums by stimulating blood circulation and reducing inflammation.

In addition, chamomile has a calming and disinfectant effect on inflamed gums. Prepare a chamomile infusion for 5 minutes and use it to rinse your mouth several times a day.

5. Coconut oil mouthwash (oil pulling)

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which can be used effectively against bacteria and pathogens. To combat or prevent gum inflammation:

Take a teaspoon of coconut oil and let it melt in your mouth. Push the oil forcefully back and forth in your mouth and run it between your teeth for five to ten minutes. This allows you to reach all areas of the tooth.

This practice is called oil pulling in English and it is recommended to do it every day or at least twice a week.

6. How to reduce inflammation of the gums with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide

The combination of bicarbonate and hydrogen peroxide is very effective against inflamed gums. Has antibacterial effect and reduces plaque.

Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide and 1 cup of warm water. After brushing your teeth at night, rinse your mouth for about two minutes with this preparation.

Do not use the mixture more than twice a daynor many days in a row, as it could damage the enamel. Use it only in specific cures.

7. Apple cider vinegar

Other folk home remedy for inflamed gums is apple cider vinegar. Dilute two teaspoons of vinegar in a glass of water and make gargle with the mixture about half an hour before brushing your teeth.

This natural oral rinse has an antibacterial effect, is anti-inflammatory and stimulates the formation of saliva, but, like the previous case, it is important not to do it daily, because it could damage the enamel. Use it only in specific cures.

8. Ice

He ice It has a vasoconstrictor effect, that is, it reduces blood flow in the inflamed area, which helps reduce swelling. is also a natural pain reliever, so it can reduce pain and discomfort in the gums. apply the ice wrapped in cloth on the inflamed area for a few minutes.

9. Salt water

He saltwater has properties anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, so it can help kill bacteria and reduce the risk of gum infection. It also helps to remove food debris and bacterial plaque that may accumulate in the gums and contribute to inflammation. Makes salt water rinses for 30 seconds several times a day, mixing a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.

10. Aloe vera gel

He aloe vera gel contains compounds with properties anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, which can help reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth and prevent gum infections. You can apply a little on the gums and massage it gently.

11. Tea tree oil

He tea tree oil It is anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. To use, add a few drops to a glass of warm water and do gargle for about 30 seconds.

It is also important to rest adequately, because the stress and lack of sleep weaken the immune system and promote general inflammation of the body, also of the gums.

Consequences of gingivitis

If gingivitis is not treated, the inflammation can spread to the entire dental system. This it can cause gums to recede and teeth to fall out. Inflamed gums can pose a health risk.

Gingivitis with mild symptoms can be treated by improving hygiene and with home remedies, but if it does not improve in a short period of time, you should seek the help of your dentist.

Dental care plays a fundamental role in maintaining healthy gums. The teeth should brush thoroughly at least twice a day. You should also use an antibacterial mouthwash and dental floss or special brushes to prevent gum inflammation. It is also highly recommended to do one or two professional dental cleanings a year.