Receding gums, also known as gingival recession, are a common condition in which the gums pull back from the surface of the tooth, exposing the roots of the teeth.
Receding Gums: Causes and Risk Factors
Receding gums can be caused by numerous factors, including:
- Hardened plaque buildup
- Hormonal changes in women
- Diabetes
- Aggressive teeth brushing
- Smoking
- HIV/AIDS
- Family history of gum disease
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of receding gums are:
- Red and swollen gums
- Bleeding after flossing or brushing
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Exposed tooth roots
- Pain at the gum line
- Visibly shrinking gums
Home Remedies for Receding Gums
Receding gums should be treated in a dentist’s office. However, there are some home remedies that can be used in order to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Propolis
Bees make this substance in order to glue their hives together. Propolis have incredible antiseptic and antibiotic properties. Moreover, some experts believe that propolis is also an anti-inflammatory and antiviral. When sprayed or gargled into the mouth, it is great to heal infections and irritations, as well as being an amazing treatment for receding gums, sore throats, and canker sores.
Note: If you are allergic to bee stings, you should not use propolis as a treatment.
- Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is one of the oldest medical herbs known to mankind. Traditionally, it has been used for centuries as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and therapeutic medicine. You can prepare chamomile tea and use it as a mouthwash a few times a day. That will soothe your gums and reduce swelling.
- Lemon Juice
Lemon is an effective antioxidant and is abundant in vitamin C that supports the immune system. For dental problems, you can squeeze a lemon to get the juice and use it as a mouthwash. This remedy is especially useful if your gums are bleeding frequently, you have a bad breath and red, swollen gums.
Alternatively, you can use calcium ascorbate, which is a form of Vitamin C. It’s available as a powder. You should simply spread on the gums and then rinse after 2-3 minutes. Success in treating receding gums has also been stated by taking Vitamin C supplements.
- Rose Vinegar
Rose vinegar is made from rose petals and organic cider vinegar. This amazing mixture helps in strengthening the gums and destroys bacteria in the mouth. It can be used as a mouthwash for swelling gums, bleeding gums and mouth ulcers. It can be also used for treating sore throat (as a gargle) and many other oral infections. For making rose vinegar, take 3 oz. (100 gr) of rose petals and soak them in 16 oz. (500 gr) of organic
Steep for about one week. In the end, strain it and use 1 tablespoon of this solution as a mouthwash daily to prevent and treat receding gums.
- Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has great anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a miracle plant with amazing medicinal effects that treats receding gums. Aloe Vera can reduce the causing bacteria and recover the damaged cells by curing many oral infections. You can cut an aloe Vera leaf and take the fresh gel out of it, then use it for brushing your teeth every day. You can also use the gel as a mouthwash after meals in order to protect the teeth and prevent reducing gums.
- Clove Oil
Clove oil has a powerful antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial, stimulant and natural fungicide. It has been used for centuries as an effective remedy for reducing gum issues and other oral infections. It is also great for treating damaged and decaying teeth. Clove oil aids to cleanse the oral cavity, stimulate the repair and growth of tissues, which have been injured, including receding gums.
With frequent usage, this oil will help you stop all bacterial actions and disinfect your mouth. You should apply some clove oil to a soft-bristled toothbrush or a clean finger and massage it into the gums every day.
Conclusion:
Gum recession it can be an initial sign of gum disease, a disorder that can get really serious and cause tooth loss. Plus, it can affect your overall health. Receding gums is a common issue and many people are usually unaware that their gums are receding till they have receded to certainly noticeable level. This condition can be successfully treated so that further damage is prevented.
In the case of gum recession, you should use a soft brush and avoid sugary foods, because they have a tendency to worsen the condition by increasing gummy deposits on your teeth. Raw vegetables and fruits can be a healthy exercise for your teeth. These natural home remedies for receding gums can help you stop this issue and promote better gum and overall oral health.
Reference : Nidcr.nih.gov