When your gums hurt, it can be hard to go about your day. Eating, drinking, or talking can become painful ordeals. Sometimes, gum pain and swelling can be caused by things such as canker sores, hormonal changes, brushing too vigorously or irritation by braces, dentures, or retainers. But swollen, bleeding, and painful gums can also be indicators of gingivitis, gum disease, or serious health issues far from your mouth.
If you are experiencing frequent or consistent pain or swelling in your gums, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist to address the problem as soon as possible. But even if your pain is temporary, you will no doubt want to reduce the discomfort you’re feeling. Fortunately, there are many simple and natural ways you can do so at home.
Here are three natural remedies for gum pain that can help you and your gums feel better:
- Saltwater rinse. Simple and effective, rinsing your mouth out with salt water can help prevent and eliminate and prevent the further growth of bacteria on your gums which may be responsible for swelling and inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds, and spit it out. Do this twice a day until the swelling or discomfort subsides.
- Hot or cold compress. As is the case with sore muscles, applying heat and cold to your gums can reduce swelling and thus minimize pain. Soak a washcloth in hot (but not boiling) water, carefully squeeze it out so it’s damp but not dripping, and gently press the washcloth to your face over the area where you are experiencing pain. You can do the same thing with cold by wrapping an ice pack or sandwich bag filled with ice in a washcloth and applying to the same area. You can also alternate between the hot and cold compresses. Keep doing this throughout the day until the swelling and inflammation fade.
- Tea time. Green tea is full of powerful antioxidants, including the antioxidant catechin, which play a crucial role in minimizing inflammation throughout our bodies, including our gums. Not only can green tea’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce the effects of bacterial infections, it can also reduce the number of bacteria itself. Make a cup of green tea as you typically would, wait for it to cool off enough to touch it, and apply the tea bag directly to the painful or inflamed area of your gums for at least five minutes.
Assure A Smile: Miami Holistic Dentistry
At Assure A Smile in Miami, we not only treat gum problems when they arise but also work with our patients to avoid them in the first place. To learn more about holistic dentistry and how to adopt healthier habits for a better you, please contact us today at 305-274-0047.
