One common disease that leads to receding gums is gingivitis. It is the inflammation of the gum tissue caused by bacteria inhabiting the oral cavity. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to teeth loss and other infections that can cause other more serious health problems.

It is important that you get rid of the bacteria thriving in your mouth to prevent this from happening to you. Luckily, there are home remedies that you can use to effectively treat gingivitis.

Saline Solution

This is perhaps the simplest remedy of all for gingivitis. As salt is a natural disinfectant, it can help eradicate the bacteria thriving in your oral cavity. Aside from that, it also alleviates swollen gums.

All you have to do is dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a half cup of warm water. Use this as a “mouth rinse” and make sure to gargle for at least one minute. Repeat this treatment at least five to six times a day.

Garlic

Garlic is popularly known to have an antibiotic effect due to its active component allicin. According to the journal of Medicinal Food, allicin found in garlic can treat dental infections such as periodontitis.

You can extract allicin by crushing one to two cloves of garlic. Wait for the juice to come out for a few second and place it directly on the infected gum.

There are times that garlic can cause a burning sensation. To reverse this, you can add some coconut oil, aloe vera or honey to the garlic juice before applying it to your gums.

Aloe Vera

A study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology states that aloe vera mouthwash can be used to treat plaque-induced gingivitis.

You can take some aloe vera using a clean finger and apply it directly on the affected area. They can easily be purchased as a gel at any pharmacy. You can also use an aloe vera plant if you have one laying around.

Turmeric

Turmeric has a long history in traditional medicine. It has been used to treat many ailments including ulcers, asthma and even chronic inflammation. Because this spice contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, this makes it a great natural remedy for gingivitis.

You can mix some turmeric powder with a little bit of water to create a paste. Rub that paste to your gums and teeth at least twice a day.

Baking Soda

Since baking soda can help neutralize an acidic mouth, it reduces the risk of gum disease and even tooth decay. It also suppresses bacterial growth that can cause other dental-related problems like cavities and plaque.

You can treat gingivitis by simply mixing 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with water and use it as a mouthwash. Swish the mixture around your mouth for at least 30 to 60 seconds to kill the bacteria. Make sure to rinse your mouth again with fresh water after spitting out the baking soda mouthwash.

Treating gingivitis usually takes more or less two weeks to clear up. But in serious cases, it could possibly take longer.

To ensure a good dental hygiene, it is recommended that you see a dentist at least once a year. And if you have any health issues that can possibly lead to gum problems, you have to see your dentist more often.

Though there are effective and inexpensive natural remedies for gingivitis, it does not mean that you can neglect your oral health. As daily brushing reduces gum infections by 60%, make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day.

Each session of brushing should last at least two minutes and do not forget to floss once a day as well. As much as possible, try not to skip on using a mouthwash as it helps clear any bacterial growth in your mouth.