3 Natural Ways to Improve Your Receding Gums
by Lillian Dixon
Do you hate your low gumline? You're not alone. With multiple potential causes, including gum disease and genetics, receding gums are a common problem. If you have a minor recession of a few millimetres or less, you may be able to grow your gums back with one of these 3 home remedies.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling has recently been heralded as a miracle natural way to whiten teeth, but that's not its only use. By thoroughly removing bacteria and preventing plaque build up, oil pulling can help your gumline improve naturally. After brushing your teeth, all you need to do is swish a small mouthful of oil around your teeth for up to 20 minutes -- the longer, the better. There are plenty of oils suitable for oil pulling. Coconut oil is one of the most popular choices, thanks to its antimicrobial properties. Sesame oil is high in omega-6 and also naturally antibacterial, helping to prevent oral diseases. The choice is down to you; try a few different oils and find out which one you prefer. Oil pulling is a safe technique for regular use -- do it as little or as often as you feel suits you.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera can have positive effects on your whole body, and your mouth is no exception. Something of a "miracle" plant, aloe vera has several properties that will assist in the regrowing of your gums. Aloe Vera has powerful antibacterial and cell regeneration properties. In fact, it's so effective that it's now found in many over-the-counter burns treatments. Research also suggests that aloe vera reduces plaque as effectively as chemical-filled mouthwashes. You can use aloe vera gel as a mouthwash by watering it down until it's liquidated enough to swill around your mouth. Alternatively, brush your teeth with aloe vera for 3 to 5 minutes after using regular toothpaste.
Essential Oils
Several essential oils can help accelerate your gum regeneration. Lemon oil is said to stimulate tissue growth, which may assist in regrowing gums. Clove oil combats infection and fungi that can prevent your gums from regrowing. Myrrh oil is known for reducing gingivitis, a prime cause of gum recession. There's a reason mint is a popular toothpaste flavouring: spearmint and peppermint are both highly antibacterial. These oils are too strong to be used on their own, and can cause further irritation if not diluted. You can dilute 1-2 drops of essential oil in a small cup of water and gargle with it, or add a few drops to your oil pulling routine for added benefits.
If your gum recession is severe, home remedies may not cut it. Just like the human body can regrow skin but not body parts, it can't regrow large amounts of gum. In this case, consider cosmetic dentistry. With gum grafting procedures becoming more sophisticated every year, your dentist is sure to have the right solution for you.
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About Me
As a mum, I know how essential sport can be to children's development. Through team sports like soccer, kids learn persistence, sportsmanship and the value of supporting their team members. However, all that learning carries some risk as well, and a stray elbow or a ball to the face can result in oral injuries. I have been the mum rushing to the emergency room with a precious permanent tooth sitting in a cup of milk. Admittedly, at the time, I wasn't even sure if the cup of milk was the right solution. As a parent, you will face those situations, and I'm here to make sure you know what to do when they pop up. With this blog, let's explore children's dentistry and sports injuries together... I want you to have the info you need to stay cool, calm and collected, regardless of how many teeth are on the pitch.