Most people focus on preventing cavities and protecting their enamel, but our gums also need our care. When bacterial infections in the gums go untreated, they can progress to periodontitis – a severe form of gum disease that leads to tooth loss.
Antibiotics play an important role in reducing bacteria and promoting healing. However, home remedies also help alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Antibiotics
Gum infections are the body’s natural response to fighting off bacteria, which leads to red, swollen gums and pus-filled pockets around teeth. They’re a serious problem because left untreated, they can advance to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that leads to tooth loss and other health issues. Antibiotics are an effective treatment for gum infection because they help alleviate pain, promote healing, and reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
Your dentist will determine whether antibiotics are needed for your gum infection, based on the severity of the condition and your overall health status. They’re often prescribed in the form of oral tablets or capsules, such as amoxicillin or clindamycin (beta-lactam antibiotics from the penicillin family) and metronidazole, which works well against anaerobic bacteria associated with gum disease. They can also be used as gels or rinses, such as Atridox (doxycycline). The dosage and duration of antibiotic therapy are crucial in order to prevent resistance to these medications.
Home remedies
Home remedies are often effective in reducing the swelling and pain of gum infections. These remedies use natural ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties. Some of them can be made at home, while others can be purchased at most grocery stores.
A salt water rinse can help heal swollen gums by eliminating bacteria and easing the pain. A tablespoon of salt in warm water can be used to rinse the mouth 2-3 times a day.
Ginger is another good home remedy for gum infection as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Mix it with baking soda to create a paste, and apply it to the affected area. Rinse the mouth with normal water after a few minutes.
Apple cider vinegar has mild acids that can restore the pH balance in the mouth and reduce bacteria. A tablespoon of ACV can be added to a glass of water and rinsed in the mouth 2-3 times a day. Essential oils can also help relieve gum pain and swelling. Clove, oregano, and tea tree oil have antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria.
Dentist consultation
If you have a serious gum infection, it is important to seek help from a dentist. They can diagnose the condition accurately, and recommend treatments that are beyond antibiotics. They can also recommend dietary changes and lifestyle choices that will support your oral health.
During the consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums using specialized equipment. They will look for any signs of gum disease, including bleeding, inflammation and bad breath. They will also check for any underlying problems, such as a weakened tooth root or a jaw imbalance.
Good dental hygiene is the most effective way to prevent gum infections. Regular brushing and flossing can remove plaque, reducing bacteria levels in the mouth. Additionally, a diet of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins can strengthen gum tissues and improve immune function. Supplements like probiotics and vitamin C can also aid in preventing gum infections. They can be found in foods such as yogurt, kefir and fatty fish.
Prevention
There are many ways to prevent gum infection and keep your mouth healthy. Daily brushing and flossing remove bacteria that cause plaque, which leads to tooth decay and gum disease. You should also avoid sugary snacks and drinks, as they feed the bacteria that lead to plaque. You should also stop smoking as this not only harms your lungs and heart but can reduce the success of some treatments for gum disease.
Regular professional dental cleanings and good oral hygiene can help to control bacteria in your mouth, but it is important that you are committed to these routines. You should also see your dentist regularly to look for signs of gum disease and take x-rays.
If you have risk factors for gum disease, such as smoking or taking certain medicines that can affect your mouth and gums, you may need to get cleanings more often. If gum disease progresses to periodontitis, pockets can form between your teeth and gums that fill with plaque, tartar and bacteria and can be difficult to clean. This can lead to further damage and tooth loss. Untreated infections can also cause sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.