Holistic Approaches to Preventing Gum Disease: Natural Remedies and Practices
Today, many patients prefer a holistic approach to their oral health. Holistic therapies for dental care often involve education, nutritional supplements, and the implementation of natural remedies and practices proven to fight gum disease and support the healthy development of teeth, bones, and gum tissue.
Holistic dentistry differs from conventional dentistry in that it considers the patient’s overall health rather than just the current problem. Let’s look at some holistic approaches to preventing gum disease using natural remedies and practices.
Gum Disease: What Is It and How Do You Get It?
Periodontitis, otherwise known as gum disease, is a common infection of the gum tissue that can destroy the bones that support the teeth without treatment. It affects more than 42 percent of all adults aged 30 or older and approximately 60 percent of people 65 and older.
While gum disease is usually preventable, poor oral hygiene and dietary habits can contribute to gum inflammation and infection. When this happens, the gums go from a healthy pink or brownish color to bright red, dark purple, or dark red.
Gum disease can also cause other uncomfortable symptoms, such as puffy or swollen gums, gums that are tender to the touch, gums that bleed easily, chronic bad breath, painful chewing, and gums that pull away from your teeth. As the infection worsens, you may develop pus between the teeth and gums and spaces between the teeth that appear as black triangles.
While there are many contributing factors, most cases of gum disease begin with plaque formation. Plaque builds on the teeth when sugars and starches from the foods you eat combine with bacteria in the mouth. While regular brushing and flossing can rid the mouth of plaque, it quickly reforms. If plaque is not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar which is more difficult to remove.
Natural Remedies for Gum Health
While prevention is the key to healthy gums, it’s essential to understand how to reverse gum disease before it worsens over time. Many at-home natural remedies can help reduce inflammation and other symptoms associated with gum disease, such as salt water rinses, which can help soothe inflamed gums, reduce bacteria, ease pain, and relieve bad breath.
The use of natural mouth rinses can also help relieve symptoms and create a healthier oral environment. Mouthwashes containing natural ingredients such as lemongrass essential oil, aloe vera juice, tea tree oil, and sage have been found to help reduce oral swelling, prevent irritation, and have a positive effect on controlling dental plaque.
Dietary Practices for Healthy Gums
The proper nutrients can make all the difference in the health of your gums. If you haven’t already, consider incorporating foods that contain vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants into your diet. Good options include leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and citrus fruits. Avoid sugary snacks and highly processed foods that can harm your enamel and contribute to inflammation.
Lifestyle Changes to Promote Good Oral Health
There is always room for improvement when it comes to your oral health. Start by reevaluating your oral health routine, including brushing and flossing methods. Also, consider how your overall health could impact your oral health. For example, if you’ve been dealing with a lot of stress, it could affect your gum health. Try stress-reducing techniques, such as exercise or meditation, to lessen the stress on your oral health.
Integrating Holistic Approaches
Good gum care has many components, and it’s essential to consider all aspects of preventing gum disease. A balanced oral health routine that combines natural remedies with conventional dental care can help you maintain your gum health and avoid infection and other problems. Also, monitor and adjust your oral health habits over time. Pay attention to changes in your gum health and adjust your holistic approaches as needed.
Maintain Your Smile with Hancock Village Dental
At Hancock Village Dental, we provide comprehensive family dental care to help patients of all ages maintain their smiles. Contact our dentist in Clermont today at 352-989-5815 for healthier teeth and gums.
