Natural Ways to Combat Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the most common diseases in the western world, with almost half of all adults over 30 experiencing mild to moderate symptoms. Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding and inflamed gums, and if untreated can lead to gum recession.

Though the condition is not reversible, it is treatable, and many people can manage gum disease at home without needing specialist treatment. These suggestions are not replacements for your usual oral care routine; continue flossing, brushing twice a day, and using mouthwash as normal.

Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting means eating all of your daily calories in a strict eating window of between 8 and 12 hours and then fasting for the rest of the 24-hour period. If you fast for more than 12 hours a day, your body begins to consume its own unhealthy cells, which can have a fast-acting impact on gum disease as your body will target damaged gum cells. Fasting also reduces inflammation, which can ease discomfort and promote healing.

Green Tea

Green tea is one of the healthiest drinks in the world. It contains an antioxidant named catechin, which targets and removes bacteria along the gum line. Adding green tea to your diet and drinking it on a regular basis can help keep your mouth healthy. It can also be used as a mouthwash when you are suffering from gum disease symptoms and can provide immediate relief from discomfort.

Tongue Health

When you have gum disease, you might notice an unpleasant taste in your mouth. This is caused by the build-up of bacteria, many of which will spread to your tongue. If your tongue is discolored, brush it with an old toothbrush, using water and gentle strokes to remove the bacteria build-up. You can also use a tongue scraper to clean your tongue. Brushing and flossing your teeth will not rid your mouth of bacteria if your tongue is still riddled with germs.

Kefir

Fermented foods such as kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut contain probiotics, which can reduce gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. Kefir is especially good as it is a milk-based product, so contains calcium. You can buy ready-made kefir in stores, but homemade kefir is far more potent and has greater healing qualities. Try brewing your own kefir drink by mixing kefir grains and whole milk, or a vegan alternative, and allowing the drink to ferment for 24 hours.

Omega-3

Inflamed gums are an uncomfortable symptom of gum disease. Eating oily fish, nuts, and seeds, or taking omega-3 supplements are great ways to naturally reduce inflammation and start to heal from gum disease. Eating omega-3 regularly can help prevent gum disease from occurring in the first place and increasing your intake when gum disease flares up can help your body fight off the infection.

Avoid Bread

Most people know that eating too much sugar is bad for their teeth, but did you know that eating bread can contribute to poor oral health? Eating bread can worsen symptoms of gum disease, so if you do eat bread products, make sure you clean your mouth thoroughly afterwards the way you would after consuming a sugary snack. In the early stages of gum disease, cutting out bread can speed up recovery.

Kick Bad Habits

Smoking and drinking alcohol both have an adverse impact on gum health. When you notice the symptoms of gum disease, try to detox from cigarettes and alcohol until the infection has cleared. Nicotine patches can help you curb cravings. Instead of drinking alcohol, swap for something that will help improve your condition, such as kombucha, a fermented soft drink with probiotic qualities that can be found in supermarkets and some bars.

The early stages of gum disease are treatable, but if the condition progresses you may need to visit a dentist or hygienist. Gum disease can cause gum recession, and ultimately bone and tooth loss, so it is a good idea to stay on top of your oral hygiene and schedule regular visits to the dentist.

The best way to treat gum disease is by preventing it through regular cleanings and eating a healthy diet, any of the natural remedies in this article can be implemented as long-term lifestyle changes to prevent a relapse of the condition.