Gingivitis Causes, Symptoms, Natural Treatment

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. It may sometimes occur as a result of infection or ill-fitting dentures, but most usually it is caused by an accumulation of plaque and impacted food around and under the gums. Left untreated, gingivitis may lead to loosening of the affected tooth (periodontitis) through damage to the membrane securing it. It is a very common problem, particularly during pregnancy.

Gingivitis may also result from systemic disorders such as vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) and endocrine disturbances (diabetes mellitus). Prevention and treatment include good oral hygiene and control or correction of local and systemic factors. The incidence of gingivitis appears to increase with age: at 10 years old, 15 percent of the U.S. population suffer; by the age of 50, more than 50 percent have gingivitis. A blood test can now detect gum disease six months before symptoms set in.

Symptoms 
• swollen and tender gums which bleed easily after brushing
• halitosis (bad breath) if areas of tissue death occur
• possibly earache from referred pain

TREATMENT 

Traditional Home and Folk Remedies 
Peach pit tea is useful for mouth infections. Rinse your mouth with the hot tea three times a day.

Herbalism 
Depending on the problem, some herbs, such as myrrh, are highly astringent and antiseptic, and may be useful locally. Other treatments may be used internally to increase the patient’s resistance. Golden seal can make an effective poultice, and will treat any infection. Comfrey mouthwash will help to heal mouth abrasions, and reduce swelling and bleeding.

Homeopathy 
Gingivitis may be treated homeopathically. One of the following specific remedies may be taken every 4 hours for up to three days: Mercurius, when the gums are spongy and the breath smells bad. Kreosotum, when the gums are red, inflamed, and swollen, and bleed easily, with the roots of the teeth exposed. Nat. mur., when gums bleed easily, there are ulcers and a taste of pus in the mouth, accompanied by sensitive teeth. Phosphorus, for gums which bleed easily when touched, gaps between teeth and gums. Silicea, for painful, swollen gums, very sensitive to cold, and which bleed easily. Abscesses generally seem to respond well to Hep. sulf., Belladonna, Silicea, or Mercurius.

Vitamins and Minerals 
Apart from a visit to a dental hygienist, followed by daily brushing and flossing, a healthy diet will promote healthy gums. Vitamin C is important for the production of collagen. Most tissues in the body are made from this. Co-enzyme Q10 supplements have been found beneficial in some cases of gum disease.