Natural Ways to Treat Gingivitis

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There are a slew of natural toothpastes and mouthwashes available on the market today. This article details two natural ingredients found in some natural oral hygiene products that are backed by scientific studies for gingivitis treatment.

Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the gums. If the gum infection is allowed to continue and increase, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone. When the infection spreads to the surrounding bone, it is called a periodontal infection. Periodontal infections can lead to bone loss which in turn can lead to the teeth falling out. Gingivitis is a common condition. According to the American Academy of Periodontology in Boston, Massachusetts, 80 percent of teens between the ages of 13 and 15 already have at least a minor gingivitis infection. Traditional treatment for gingivitis includes having a regular professional cleaning of the teeth done by a dentist, regular and thorough oral hygiene care at home, daily use of an antiseptic mouth wash and in some cases the use of antibiotics.

The use of aloe vera and neem in oral hygiene products has gained in popularity. Scientific studies have shown that both aloe vera and neem are useful in the prevention and treatment of gingivitis.


Neem
Neem is a natural ingredient that is derived from the neem tree. The neem tree is a large evergreen tree that is found predominately in India. Neem has many uses in the world of natural medicine. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of neem make it an excellent ingredient for use in dental products. Neem reduces bacteria's ability to attach to the gums and teeth, resulting in less plaque formation.

Neem kills the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gingivitis and reduces the bacteria's ability to colonize in the mouth. (Wolinsky and Mania, 1996)

Regular use of toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain neem can prevent and in some cases reverse gingivitis. (Elvin-Lewis, 1980)

Aloe Vera
An Academy of General Dentistry Journal review recognized the benefits of aloe vera in gingivitis treatment and other oral health conditions. Aloe vera has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Patients who use aloe vera report less gum pain and swelling.

Dental Products
Look for natural toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain both aloe vera and neem as ingredients. Alternatively you can make your own home gingivitis toothpaste, by adding a few drops of neem to an ounce of aloe vera gel. Do not use more than a few drops of neem because it can be toxic in high doses.

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Alternative & Natural Health Disclaimer
The information in the article this disclaimer is linked from should not be considered medical advice. The information in the article this diclaimer is linked from is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure any ailment. Always check with your physician before taking any products or following any advice you have read on BrightHub.com. Always consult your doctor before you start, stop or change anything that has been previously prescribed. Certain herbs and holistic remedies are unsuitable to take if you are pregnant or nursing and must always be cleared by your doctor before use.