Gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis, is a common dental problem that can lead to more severe issues if left untreated. While maintaining proper oral hygiene practices like regular brushing and flossing is crucial, incorporating natural remedies can further aid in reducing gum inflammation.
There are quite a few essential oils that have healing properties. Some are great to have around you for their scents, while others only work when they get massaged into the problem areas. Many of the ones below can be swished around your mouth to help reduce the inflammation that often accompanies gum disease. If your gums are puffy or sore, you may want to consider rinsing your mouth or massaging one of these oils into your gums. They may work wonders at taking down the swelling.
Which Oils Work Best?
If you want an oil that you can swish around your mouth to rid your mouth of excess bacteria, then you should try either olive oil or coconut oil. They should be swished for 15-20 minutes, then spit into the garbage. This inhibits bacterial growth, and can help heal your gums at the same time.
For essential oils, you want to either take a drop or two and massage them into the gums directly, or you want to add a drop or two into a mouthwash to rinse your mouth out daily. You should stick with oils that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, including tea tree oil, clove oil, peppermint oil, and neem oil.
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is renowned for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its ability to combat harmful bacteria in the mouth makes it an excellent choice for addressing gum inflammation. You can use it by adding a few drops of tea tree oil to your toothpaste or by diluting it with water and using it as a mouthwash. Remember to spit it out after rinsing, and do not swallow it.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil, often celebrated for its versatile health benefits, can also contribute to gum health. It contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties. Oil pulling with coconut oil involves swishing it in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes, which helps reduce inflammation and fight harmful bacteria. This practice can help reduce bacteria in your mouth, keeping your dental implant area clean and free from infection.
3. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil not only leaves your breath feeling fresh but also has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated gums. You can dilute a few drops of peppermint oil in water and use it as a mouthwash. The refreshing taste can make your oral care routine more enjoyable.
4. Clove Oil
Clove oil is known for its numbing and analgesic effects, making it a popular choice for relieving dental pain and gum inflammation. It contains eugenol, a natural compound with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. To use clove oil, mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut oil and gently massage it into your gums for relief.
5. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce gum inflammation and promote healing. Dilute a few drops of eucalyptus oil in water and use it as a mouthwash or add it to your regular toothpaste to reap its benefits.
6. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil, a natural antimicrobial, may help treat gum disease by reducing inflammation and killing harmful bacteria. Its active compound, carvacrol, can be diluted and applied topically or mixed with water as a mouthwash for improved oral health.
Oregano oil is rich in antioxidants and antibacterial compounds that can help combat gum inflammation and maintain oral health.
Mix a drop or two of oregano oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the affected gum area for relief. Oregano oil can be a valuable addition to your oral hygiene routine for maintaining the health of your dental implant.
7. Sesame Oil
Sesame oil has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for oil pulling, a practice known to improve gum health. Swishing sesame oil in your mouth can help reduce inflammation, remove toxins, and strengthen your gums.
These oils can significantly take down the swelling of your gums, when used regularly and coupled with a solid oral hygiene routine. For more information, talk with both your dentist and your periodontist. These should not be used in lieu of periodontal care. Rather, they should be used as an accompaniment to getting your gums professionally healthy. Take advantage of the benefits that oil can provide your gums when they are inflamed, and help to rebuild your gums to a healthier state. It only takes a few minutes a day and can make a world of difference in very little time. If you have any questions, or if you would like to learn more, please call us today at (713) 523-9040.