5 Ways to Beat Gum Disease
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Official dental opinion states that once your gums start receding, they cannot recover and all that can be done is scale and polishing to prevent any further gum loss. However, some dental professionals are now realizing that gum tissue can regenerate and with the right recovery program it is possible to reverse gum disease.
1. First, look at your diet. Stay away from sugar and too many carbohydrates and eat high protein healthy foods. Snack on seeds as these contain minerals that may contribute to healthier gum tissue.
Swap your morning coffee for a cup of green tea. Research in the Journal of Periodontology found that for every cup of green tea drunk, patients had less gum bleeding, less clinical attachment loss and shallower periodontal pocket depth. The more green tea they drank, the lower the incidence in periodontal disease.
This is probably because of catechin, a substance in green tea that is antioxidant and reduces inflammation. Take a multivitamin supplement, particularly if you aren’t sure that your diet contains everything you need or you have a busy lifestyle.
2. Check your toothpaste. It may be making the situation worse. Don’t have one that contains chemical whiteners or artificial coloring as these may irritate gum tissue. Sodium lauryl sulfate can also irritate and actually serves no purpose for your teeth and gums. It isn’t needed for their health. Saccharine or sugar is counter-productive and can hasten tooth decay.
Fluoride has been reported to protect against dental decay and gum disease, however, research carried out in 2007 found that in high-fluoride areas, there was a strong occurrence of periodontal disease. There is also a condition called fluorosis caused by having too much fluoride that can chip away at your enamel and result in cracked and weakened teeth.
Opt for natural toothpastes that state ‘100% natural ingredients’ on the packaging. Rosemary toothpastes may improve gum cell regeneration.
Other examples of toothpastes are echinacea (good for wound healing), baking soda, bee propolis (a natural antibiotic that may help tackle bacteria in the mouth) and calendula.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment2 Comments
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December 1, 2011 - 5:33pmThis Comment
Forgot to mention that BLIS K12 Throat Guard...check out www.blis.co.nz
December 1, 2011 - 5:34pm