What is periodontal disease? Periodontal refers to any ailment surrounding the teeth, including the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. A combination of bacteria, food particles, and mucus forms plaque build-up on the teeth, leading to infection and inflammation, which in turn causes more bacteria becoming trapped in the pockets between the teeth and gums. Factors such as smoking, genetics, a poor diet, and poor dental care habits all contribute to the problem.
Periodontal disease is what occurs after gingivitis has progressed from red and inflamed gums to tender, bleeding, and often receding gums, loose teeth, chronic bad breath and teeth grinding. It is important to recognize periodontal disease symptoms as early as possible, as reversing receding gums naturally is possible, but the further the disease has progressed the more likely surgery is to become necessary.
How to Reverse Receding Gums with Nutrition
There are a number of natural remedies for periodontal disease, from natural toothpastes, to herbal remedies for receding gums, but the most important facet of true healing is diet. First, some foods should be eliminated, at least until positive results are noticed. Sugary foods greatly aggravate receding gums by encouraging plaque build-up, while at the same time making it more difficult for white blood cells to get rid of bacteria. Processed foods, white flour based products, caffeine, alcohol, and soda all inhibit any attempts at reversing receding gums naturally.
Meanwhile, raw fruits and vegetables should be snacked on throughout the day. Not only are they packed with vitamins and minerals, but they also help to exercise the teeth and gums. Choose vitamin C rich foods such as kiwi, cantaloup, broccoli, and green peppers, as well as carotene-rich vegetables - sweet potatoes, carrots, and green leafy vegetables. Make cranberries, cashews, and green tea dietary staples for naturally reversing receding gums as these foods all have anti-adhesion properties.
Supplements to use as natural remedies for periodontal disease include ginkgo biloba for blood circulation; zinc for immune strength; vitamin C with bioflavonoids for healing and to slow plaque expansion, and coenzyme Q10, which increases energy for cell renewal.
Herbal Remedies for Receding Gums
Either as a topical treatment, or a tea, herbs can be used as home remedies to reverse periodontal disease. Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to irritated gum tissue. Both clove oil and eucalyptus oil, first diluted in equal parts of olive oil, are beneficial for painful gums. Dab on problem areas, but also use these herbal remedies as massage oils to encourage healing and circulation around receding gums.
Chamomile, calendula flower, or sage leaf tea all work well as healing teas by reducing inflammation and fighting off bacteria. They can be drunk, or simply used as a natural mouth rinse for periodontal disease. Echinacea, hawthorn berries, and rose hips are all beneficial teas to boost the immune system.
No matter how many special toothpastes and natural remedies for periodontal disease that you use, there is no substitute for proper dental care. Brush and floss at least twice a day, change your toothbrush every thirty days, brush the tongue to reduce mouth bacteria, rinse with some sort of antibacterial agent, and visit the dentist.
Sources:
Balch, Phyllis A. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
Page, Linda. "Healing Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone." Eleventh Edition (Traditional Wisdom, 2003).
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