Home Remedies to Reduce Gum Swelling

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Published on: 18 Feb 2016 8:30 AM GMT
Home Remedies to Reduce Gum Swelling
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Lucknow: Gums play a major role not only in your dental health, but in your overall well-being. The problem of swollen gums can occur due to a variety of causes. Bleeding from your mouth can leave one with bad breath and make one feel very awkward.

  • The swelling alone is often enough to make one feel uncomfortable throughout the day.
  • Gum swelling can be due to gingivitis, infection, nutritional deficiencies, diabetes or pregnancy.
  • When one thinks of dental health, it is mostly about preventing cavities. But it's equally important to pay attention to the gums.
  • Gum swelling can cause the gums to become irritated, sensitive and even painful. The gums also may bleed easily while brushing or flossing.
  • Proper oral hygiene and home remedies can provide relief. However, if the swelling in gums persists for more than two weeks, consult a dentist.

Here are top 5 home remedies to reduce gum swelling:

  1. Warm and Cold Compresses

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Warm and cold compresses can provide quick relief by reducing pain and swelling in gums. Hold the compresses on the face but not directly on the swollen gums.

  • Soak a clean cloth in warm water and wring out the excess liquid.
  • Hold the cloth against the face for five minutes.
  • Next, wrap a bag of frozen peas in a thin towel and hold it against the face until the area becomes slightly numb.
  • Repeat the cycle two or three times.

  1. Salt Water

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Salt is another effective remedy for swollen gums. It inhibits growth of bacteria in the mouth and prevents infections that may lead to several oral health issues.

  • After brushing the teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush, gently rub salt on the gums for a few seconds.
  • Rinse it off with warm water. Do this once daily.
  • After the gums are healthy again, do this three times a week to prevent recurrence.
  • Another option is to add half to one teaspoon of salt to a glass of lukewarm water and use it to rinsing twice daily until the swelling subsides.

  1. Hydrogen Peroxide

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Hydrogen peroxide can also help reduce gum inflammation and pain. It can even help kill germs and fight oral problems. For oral health, use food grade, 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution only.

  • Mix equal parts of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution and water. Swish the solution around gums and teeth for 30 seconds. Rinse it off with warm water.
  • Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with enough hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Rub this paste on the gums, wait for one minute and then rinse thoroughly with water.
  • Use either of these treatments two or three times a week.

  1. Turmeric

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Turmeric is also a good home remedy for swollen gums. It contains curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. In addition, it prevents the spread of bacterial activity that causes several oral problems.

  • Mix half teaspoon of turmeric powder with a little water to make a paste.
  • Apply this paste on the gums with a finger.
  • Leave it on for five minutes, then massage gently for one minute.
  • Rinse with warm water.
  • Repeat twice daily for one to two weeks.

  1. Black Tea Bags

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Black tea has tannin that can help reduce inflammation of the gums. In addition, its antioxidant properties promote good oral health.

  • Soak a tea bag in boiling water for two to three minutes.Remove it and allow it to cool to a bearable temperature.
  • Hold the tea bag on the affected area of the gums for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Rinse mouth with warm salt-water solution.
  • Repeat once daily for a few days.

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