Swollen gums can be caused by various things, from gingivitis, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal changes to infections. This condition can cause pain that can interfere with your activities. To overcome this, here’s how to treat swollen gums naturally and medically that you can do.
How to treat swollen gums naturally and medically.
1. Brine
Brine is a natural swollen gum remedy you can make yourself at home.
According to a study published in the journal PLoS ONE, rinsing your mouth with salt water can relieve inflammation in the gums and speed up the healing process.
Here are the steps to try this way of naturally healing swollen gums.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water.
- Gargle with such a solution for 30 seconds.
- Remove the water, and do not swallow it.
- Do this method 2-3 times daily until the swelling of the gums deflates.
2. Warm and cold compresses
Warm or cold compresses can also be used as a treatment for swollen gums accompanied by natural pain that you can do at home.
Here are the steps you can follow for those interested in trying this method.
- Soak a clean cloth or small towel in warm water, remove from heat, and squeeze.
- Put a warm compress on the face or the outside of the mouth (not directly to the gums) for 5 minutes.
- Jika wants to try a cold compress and wrap crushed ice cubes with a clean cloth or a small towel.
- Put a compress on the face for 5 minutes.
- Repeat this way of relieving swollen gums 2-3 times.
- You can do this method 2-3 times a day in the first two days after experiencing swollen gums.
3. Turmeric gel
One of the herbal remedies for swollen gums at home that you can easily find is turmeric.
Turmeric is considered potent because it contains curcumin, which is supplemented with antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
According to a study in the National Journal of Maxillofacial Surgery, turmeric in gel form could prevent plaque and gingivitis, which are common causes of swollen gums.
To practice this natural swollen gum treatment, here are the steps you need to take.
- Brush your teeth first and rinse your mouth with clean water.
- Apply turmeric gel on the gums.
- Let stand for 10 minutes.
- Repeat rinsing the mouth with clean water to clean the turmeric gel on the gums.
- Remove the water, and do not swallow it.
- Perform this method 2 times a day until the swelling disappears.
4. Hydrogen peroxide solution
Did you know you can use hydrogen peroxide to remove swollen gums?
According to The Indiana State Department of Health, hydrogen peroxide can treat reddish and painful swollen gums.
However, the hydrogen peroxide must be food grade, and the level is only 3 per cent.
Here are the steps to treat swollen gums with hydrogen peroxide.
- Mix 3 tablespoons of 3 per cent hydrogen peroxide with 3 tablespoons of water.
- Gargle with the solution for 30 seconds.
- Remove the water, and do not swallow it.
- Do this 2-3 times a week until the swelling of the gums deflates.
5. Essential oils
According to an article released in The European Journal of Dentistry, peppermint, tea tree, and thyme essential oils are effective in preventing the growth of disease-causing microorganisms in the mouth.
So, it is not surprising that these three essential oils have the potential to overcome gum swelling.
To try it out, you can follow these steps.
- Mix three drops of one of the essential oils of peppermint, thyme, or tea tree with a glass of warm water.
- Gargle with the solution for 30 seconds.
- Remove the water, and do not swallow it.
- Do this method 2 times a day until the swelling subsides.
6. Aloe Vera
Another article in The Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry explains that gargling with aloe vera is as effective as chlorhexidine (a prescription drug for gingivitis) in curing and preventing gingivitis.
Here is how to treat swollen gums naturally with aloe.
- Gargle with 2 teaspoons of aloe vera mouthwash
- Remove the water, and do not swallow it.
- Do this method 2 times a day for 10 days.
7. Ginger
Ginger can be used as a natural swollen gum remedy because it contains antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant compounds.
To try it at home, you will need a small piece of ginger and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Here is how to treat swollen gums accompanied by pain naturally with ginger.
- Crush and mash the ginger, then add salt to it.
- Rub the mixture on the affected part of the gums and leave for 10-12 minutes.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly.
- Practice this method 2-3 times a day.
8. Lemon
Lemon juice contains antimicrobial compounds that can help kill microbes that cause infection and swollen gums.
Not only that, but lemon juice can also balance the pH levels in your mouth.
Before trying it, prepare 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, one glass of warm water, and 1-2 drops of rose juice (optional).
Combine all the above ingredients, then rinse your mouth 2 times daily until the swelling in the gums deflates.
9. Medical drugs
Medical medications prescribed by a doctor to treat swelling of the gums are generally tailored to the cause.
Therefore, you are advised to see a doctor to find out the cause of the swollen gums that you are experiencing.
The discomfort and pain that often accompanies swollen gums can be treated with painkillers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
How to prevent swollen gums
Here are some ways you can do to prevent swollen gums.
- Brushing your teeth regularly, at least twice a day or after every meal.
- Cleaning between teeth (flossing) regularly.
- Avoid sugary drinks as they can result in a buildup of bacteria in the mouth.
- Avoid tobacco, including smoking or chewing it.
- Avoid alcohol and alcoholic mouthwashes, as alcohol can dry and irritate the gums.
- Avoid coarse and sharp foods, such as chips, grains, and popcorn, which often get stuck in your teeth and cause pain.
