How to Treat Gum Disease at Home: The Best Home Remedies | Byte® (2023)

Table of Contents

  1. Can I Get Rid Myself of Gum Disease?
  2. Home Remedies
  3. What if Home Remedies Don't Work?
  4. What Do Expert Recommend?
  5. Top Treatments
  6. References

Even with regular dental treatment, some people are simply more likely to develop gum disease than others. If you are concerned about gingivitis or periodontitis, you can reduce your risk or manage symptoms at home with some home remedies, including homemade mouth rinses or baking soda toothpaste.

However, there is no substitute for regular checkups and cleanings at your dentist, and a good oral hygiene routine that includes brushing your teeth for two minutes at least twice per day, flossing or using interdental brushes, and using an over-the-counter mouthwash.

Can I Get Rid Myself of Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the gums that can lead to inflammation, pain, sensitivity, bleeding, gum recession, and tooth decay. Although dentists commonly treat this problem, periodontitis is one of the leading causes of tooth loss.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 46 percent of adults, ages 30 and older, in the United States have gum disease. About 9 percent of adults struggle with severe gum disease.

Not only can untreated gum disease lead to bad breath and tooth decay, but it can also cause your teeth to become loose and shift out of alignment.

Mild gum disease, or gingivitis, might be tough to notice, but it can quickly progress to periodontitis without regular dental checkups and a good oral hygiene routine at home. While good oral hygiene can be boosted by at-home remedies, which can reduce how quickly gum disease develops, the best way to end periodontitis or gingivitis is with a dentist’s help.

Home Remedies to Stop Gum Disease & Support Oral Health

Even with regular dental checkups and cleanings, you might still develop gum disease. Some people are simply more prone to this condition than others, even with good oral hygiene.

If you have consistently struggled with gum disease, you may consider adding some home remedies to your oral care routine. These at-home techniques can help to reduce plaque buildup and mouth bacteria, and improve your overall oral health.

Potentially useful home remedies include the following:

  • Saline mouth rinse: One of the most recommended options for boosting your oral hygiene is a simple mouth rinse that combines warm water and table salt. \ \ The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends this simple saline rinse after tooth extraction, as it is gentler than most over-the-counter mouthwashes (especially those containing alcohol), and reduces potential gum infection. You do not need to have a tooth removed to benefit from a saline mouth rinse since it kills many harmful bacteria in your mouth. Try this rinse once per day if you are concerned about gum disease. Then, contact your dentist to talk about your specific situation.
  • Homemade mouth rinses: Drug stores and grocery stores have dozens of types of over-the-counter mouthwash available, but many of these contain alcohol or other harsh ingredients that can lead to a burning sensation. \ \ If you want to avoid this or enhance your existing mouthwash, you can add some home remedies like tea tree oil, sage extract, or aloe vera juice.
  • Oil pulling: This is a folk remedy practiced in ancient India and some modern societies, including Western cultures, where it has become trendy over the past several years. \ \ Coconut oil pulling studies suggest that some antimicrobial properties in this type of oil can help. Pulling with sesame oil is another practice, but it has fewer studies on it and less scientific support. \ \ When added to your existing oral hygiene routine, oil pulling might improve your oral health. By itself, however, it is much less effective.
  • Baking soda toothpaste: Several toothpastes have added baking soda, but if you do not already have one of these, you can simply sprinkle some baking soda on your toothpaste before you brush your teeth. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is basic, so it can neutralize the acids that bacteria in your mouth produce. This can reduce the buildup of plaque. \ \ Baking soda is also slightly abrasive, so it can scrub superficial stains off your teeth. However, using too much baking soda can wear down the enamel on your teeth, which can lead to an off-white or stained appearance. \ \ Use baking soda sparingly, only if you are prone to gum disease or plaque buildup, or your dentist recommends using it regularly.

As additions to your daily oral hygiene routine, any of the above home remedies to treat gum disease can be very useful. However, it is important that these are additions to your routine rather than replacements for a dentist-recommended routine. These home remedies are not effective on their own.

What to do if Home Remedies Don't Work

If you’ve tried home remedies and improved your daily hygiene routine but are still experiencing symptoms of gum disease (such as gum bleeding and swelling), it’s important to visit a dentist to determine your next treatment steps.

If you were already in the advanced stages of decay or gum problems before you started trying to correct the issue on your own, your home remedies and hygiene routine may not be enough to counter the damage already done. You may need professional help to regain control of your oral health. You may have severe decay and bacteria buildup that only a dental professional can effectively remove.

Tartar buildup, for example, can only be removed by a dental professional. Tartar is hardened plaque bacteria that binds itself to teeth. It irritates gums and causes gum inflammation, which is a major cause of gum disease.

So, even with a diligent oral hygiene routine and the most effective home remedies for gum disease, you may be fighting a losing battle if you’re trying to help your gums as they’re being continuously irritated by tartar or other problematic bacteria buildup that simply can’t be overcome without professional help.

An infection, for example, may require antibiotics. Ignoring the need for professional treatment could increase the risk of the infection spreading to other teeth, your mouth and jaw, and even other parts of your body.

Another reason to seek professional help if home remedies aren’t working to correct your gum issues is the possibility that an underlying health issue may be the cause (or a factor). Chronic health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and kidney problems have been linked to gum disease.

Your gum health is connected to your oral health, which relates directly to your overall health and well-being. A qualified dental professional may be able to identify signs of a related health problem and set you on the path to treatment.

What Do Dental Experts Recommend for Gum Disease Treatment?

The two best ways to maintain your oral health and reduce gum disease are to visit your dentist for a checkup and cleaning at least once per year, or as they recommend, and to develop a good oral healthcare routine at home.

Dentists recommend an oral hygiene routine that includes:

  • Brushing your teeth at least twice per day, for two minutes each time.
  • Using a toothpaste with fluoride to improve tooth enamel strength.
  • Brushing your tongue and the roof of your mouth after brushing your teeth to help remove bacteria.
  • Flossing or using interdental brushes to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
  • Swishing with mouthwash.

New studies are always updating dental hygiene information, so if you are interested in adjusting your at-home oral care practices, talk to your dentist during your routine checkup. For example, a recent study suggests that using mouthwash after brushing your teeth can actually prevent fluoride from providing enamel support since it washes this mineral away. Instead, use mouthwash and floss your teeth before brushing, to remove as much plaque as possible and still get fluoride’s benefits.

If you do develop gingivitis or periodontitis, your dentist will create a treatment plan to eliminate this infection. This might include medicated mouthwashes, deep cleanings, and more frequent dentist visits for cleanings and examinations.

Following your dentist’s advice and using prescriptions as recommended can stop this infection and prevent harm to your overall oral health, including tooth decay and loss.

Top Treatments for Treating Gum Disease

  1. Dental visits and cleanings: Even if you are planning on using home remedies to treat your gum issues, the first step in treatment should be a visit to your dentist. An exam can determine if you have any underlying health issues that need to be addressed before starting home care, such as an infection requiring antibiotics or a cavity needing filling.\ \ A cleaning will ensure that any buildup of tartar is removed, so you start with a clean slate for a home routine.
  2. Improved dental hygiene routine: A consistent and effective daily oral hygiene routine is key to successfully improving gum health. In order to reduce plaque and ensure bacteria isn’t building up daily, you should brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste, and floss daily.\ \ An antimicrobial mouthwash should also be used. You can make your own with essential oils and natural ingredients or use an alcohol-free store-bought option.
  3. Clean and moist gums: Staying hydrated is vital to gum health, and drinking more water will help your gums heal. Water acts as a natural cleaner for the gums, rinsing away bacteria and particles.\ \ It also protects against dry mouth, which will limit your saliva production and thus make you more prone to harmful buildup. Saliva also fights off bad bacteria. Gentle saline mouth rinses can also help keep your gums and mouth moist.

General References

Gum Disease. (November 2020). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Tooth Extraction. (2013). American Dental Association, PatientSmart Patient Education Center.

Can Baking Soda be Used to Brush and Whiten Teeth?(April 2019). Ameritas Insight Blog.

Preventing Periodontal Disease. American Academy of Periodontology.

Use Mouthwash and Floss Before Cleaning Your Teeth, Says Viral TikTok Video – and Experts Agree. (May 2020).Evening Standard.

Medical References

Tea Tree Oil Versus Chlorhexidine Mouthwash in Treatment of Gingivitis: A Pilot Randomized, Double Blinded Clinical Trial. (February 2020).European Journal of Dentistry.

The Antibacterial Effect of Sage Extract (Salvia officinalis) Mouthwash AgainstStreptococcus mutansin Dental Plaque: A Randomized Clinical Trial. (June 2015).Iranian Journal of Microbiology.

Comparative Efficacy of Aloe Vera Mouthwash and Chlorhexidine on Periodontal Health: A Randomized Controlled Trial. (October 2016).Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry.

Oil Pulling for Maintaining Oral Hygiene – A Review. (January 2017).Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.

Effect of Coconut Oil in Plaque Related Gingivitis – A Preliminary Report. (March-April 2015).Nigerian Medical Journal.

Oral Health: A Window to Your Overall Health. Mayo Clinic.

4 Ways Drinking Water Improves Your Smile. University of Illinois Chicago.

Dry Mouth. Mayo Clinic.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to serve as dental or other professional health advice and is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any condition or symptom. You should consult a dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

FAQs

How to Treat Gum Disease at Home: The Best Home Remedies | Byte®? ›

Antibiotics. Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics can include antibiotic mouth rinses or putting gel containing an antibiotic into gum pockets. Sometimes oral antibiotics are needed to get of bacteria that cause infections.

How do you get rid of gum disease ASAP? ›

Instead, you'll only be able to manage some of the symptoms.
  1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day.
  2. Floss Your Teeth Once a Day.
  3. Use a Fluoride Mouth Rinse.
  4. Don't Skip Dental Appointments.
  5. Avoid Sugary Foods and Beverages.
Jul 2, 2020

What kills gum disease bacteria? ›

Antibiotics. Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infection. Topical antibiotics can include antibiotic mouth rinses or putting gel containing an antibiotic into gum pockets. Sometimes oral antibiotics are needed to get of bacteria that cause infections.

Can I cure gum disease myself at home? ›

If you begin treatment at an early stage, home remedies are usually able to clear gingivitis. It's essential to treat the plaque before it becomes tartar. You may also wish to increase the frequency and duration of brushing and flossing. Even though home remedies contain natural ingredients, you shouldn't swallow them.

How do you use hydrogen peroxide for gum disease? ›

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse – A mix of water and hydrogen peroxide can help treat sore, red, or swollen gums. To use hydrogen peroxide for receding gums combine 1/4 cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup of water, swish for 30 seconds, and spit it out. This can be repeated two to three times a week.

Does hydrogen peroxide help gums? ›

Use Hydrogen Peroxide

If you've been using hydrogen peroxide solely for cuts, you're missing out on the indispensable dental benefits of this solution. Hydrogen peroxide on gums can reduce plaque. It kills the bacteria that cause gum diseases.

What is the strongest natural antibiotic for gum disease? ›

Warm salt water rinses

Saltwater offers a powerful anti-inflammatory effect on the gums and helps destroy harmful bacteria. Moreover, it improves the healing process. Dentists recommend mixing half tablespoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Afterward, rinse typically for around a minute.

Does vinegar cure gum disease? ›

Does vinegar kill gingivitis? Another popular method of treating gingivitis is gargling with apple cider vinegar. Don't use regular vinegar or white wine vinegar as these are too acidic. Apple cider vinegar has long been used as a remedy to help treat a variety of conditions due to its antioxidant properties.

What is the fastest way to heal gums? ›

Excellent brushing and flossing and routine professional cleanings can help reduce and prevent bacteria build-up in the mouth, helping your gums to heal faster. Be sure to avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes and abrasive oral products. If possible, use fluoride toothpaste and an electric toothbrush.

Does rubbing salt on gums help? ›

Salt is a natural disinfectant that helps with gum disease in a few ways: It removes loose debris and cleans the teeth and gums. Reduces inflammation and swelling and soothes the gums. It helps to get rid of decay and plaques.

How do you get rid of a gum infection without going to the dentist? ›

You can use hydrogen peroxide as the best home remedy for gum infection. If you feel uneasiness in your gums or teeth, use a 1:1 ratio or combine equal quantities of warm water and hydrogen peroxide to form a mouthwash, then rinse your mouth with it.

Which vitamin is good for gums? ›

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps keep the connective tissues in your gums healthy and strong, which hold your teeth in place.

Can you permanently get rid of gum disease? ›

Gum disease can be cured. Essentially, it's all about removing bacteria from your mouth and allowing the gums to heal back to a healthy state. If you want to get rid of gum disease, the first step is to get the right education so that you know how to clean your teeth effectively at home.

Can baking soda help gum disease? ›

Baking soda has antibacterial properties, so it can reduce the occurrence or accumulation of bacteria in your mouth that may cause decay or periodontal disease.

What is the fastest way to cure gum infection? ›

Rinsing with salt water 2-3 times a day can be effective in battling a gum infection. Be careful to not rinse with salt water too often, as this can cause the salt to affect your tooth enamel. Other homemade mouthwash combinations can also be effective, such as lemongrass and oil, aloe vera, and tea tree oil.

How fast can you fix gum disease? ›

The time it takes to get rid of the bacteria that cause gum disease depends on how serious the infection is. Mild cases of gingivitis can be treated through daily brushing and flossing, and bleeding may stop within a week or so as the inflamed gums settle down.

How quickly can you get rid of gum disease? ›

How long does it take to treat gingivitis? Patients who comply with their dentist's recommendations will often see their condition reduce dramatically within two or three weeks. More serious stages of gingivitis may take longer to see results.

How fast can gum disease go away? ›

If you have the first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, you can usually expect to heal and recover within 14 days of getting a deep cleaning, assuming you take your prescribed antibiotics and maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing thoroughly.

References

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