Are you experiencing persistent bad breath, swollen gums that bleed easily or painful sensations in your gums? These could be signs of periodontitis, an advanced stage of gum disease that can significantly impact your oral health if left untreated. While professional dental care is essential, there are effective measures you can take at home to manage and improve your gum health.
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that occurs when plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) builds up on teeth and gums. If not removed by regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, which can lead to infections and damage to the gums and bone supporting the teeth.
This is because as periodontitis progresses, it creates pockets between the gums and teeth that get infected. This infection can break down the bone and tissue that hold teeth in place, making teeth loose or even causing them to fall out.
Managing periodontitis effectively involves a dual approach: diligent home care and professional guidance from your dentist. In this article, we will take a look at how you can effectively manage periodontitis at home.
Related Articles
How to cure periodontitis gum disease at home?
Periodontal diseases, often caused by poor oral hygiene, can lead to significant health problems, including bone loss and receding gums. When dental plaque builds up and is not properly removed, it can result in the development of periodontitis.
The symptoms of periodontal diseases include swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath and loose teeth. Treating periodontitis promptly is crucial to prevent further damage. Effective gum disease treatment often involves professional cleaning and maintaining good oral hygiene. Here are some effective solutions for gum disease treatment at home:
1. Maintain a strict oral care routine
Managing periodontitis gum disease begins with maintaining proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing daily.
- Choose a toothpaste containing fluoride to strengthen enamel and prevent tooth decay. Fluoride helps protect teeth from acid attacks caused by bacteria in plaque.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, making sure to brush all tooth surfaces thoroughly, especially along the gum line where plaque has a tendency to accumulate.
- Flossing and using interdental brushes daily is crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line where a toothbrush may not reach.
2. Select the right toothbrush
- For gentler care of your gums, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth.
- To avoid gum irritation, do not brush too hard. Instead, use a gentle, circular motion to ensure thorough cleaning while reaching the gum line comfortably.
- And don't forget to switch out your toothbrush every three months. Over time, bristles wear down, making regular replacement crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
3. Use an antimicrobial mouthwash for rinsing
- Adding an antimicrobial mouthwash to your oral care routine can significantly reduce bacteria. Ingredients like chlorhexidine are known for their strong antibacterial properties, which help control plaque buildup.
- Some mouthwashes contain natural ingredients like tea tree oil and aloe vera. A study conducted in 2016 showed that aloe vera can be just as effective as chlorhexidine in treating and preventing gingivitis.
- When using an antimicrobial mouthwash, follow the specific instructions provided on the product packaging. Ensure you thoroughly rinse your mouth, covering all surfaces to maximise its effectiveness.
4. Saltwater rinse
- Saltwater rinses have been used for ages as a natural remedy to address various oral issues, including gum disease. They work by reducing swelling, soothing inflamed gums and promoting healing.
- To prepare a saltwater rinse, mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Swish this solution around your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat 2-3 times daily.
- A recent study shows that using a saltwater rinse can be highly effective in treating gum inflammation caused by gingivitis. It complements regular brushing and flossing and can provide soothing relief for sensitive or irritated gums.
5. Stay hydrated
- Drinking enough water is crucial for removing toxins and keeping your mouth healthy. It also boosts saliva production which neutralises acids and prevents bacteria from thriving, thus contributing to improved gum health.
- Moreover, water helps wash away food particles and bacteria from the mouth. Aim to drink eight glasses of water each day to maintain optimal hydration and support your gum health.
6. Know when to visit the dentist
- Periodontitis represents an advanced stage of gum disease that typically requires professional dental treatment alongside home care efforts. While home remedies can support treatment, they are not sufficient alone to effectively manage or reverse periodontitis.
- Professional dental interventions such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotics and in severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to stop the disease's progression and prevent further damage to the gums and teeth.
It's crucial not to delay dental visits when signs of periodontitis are present, such as persistent bad breath, swollen and bleeding gums or increased tooth sensitivity. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and potentially preserve teeth that might otherwise be lost due to advanced periodontitis.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for monitoring and effectively managing periodontitis. Ready to book a gum check up with us? Just drop us a message here and we will be glad to assist!
Call us at : +65 6221 8284
References
- Vangipuram S, Jha A, Bhashyam M. Comparative efficacy of aloe vera mouthwash and chlorhexidine on periodontal health: A randomized controlled trial. J Clin Exp Dent. 2016 Oct 1;8(4):e442-e447. doi: 10.4317/jced.53033. PMID: 27703614; PMCID: PMC5045693.
- Huynh NC-N, Everts V, Leethanakul C, Pavasant P, Ampornaramveth RS (2016) Rinsing with Saline Promotes Human Gingival Fibroblast Wound Healing In Vitro. PLoS ONE 11(7): e0159843. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0159843