The information on this website is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any disease, condition, illness, or injury. While you might see a lot of chatter about antibiotic rinses or more invasive procedures while trolling the web for solutions for gum disease, I’d rather talk about the vibrant colors, rich smells, and the flavorful tastes of culinary spices with you instead, because food is medicine and what we eat influences our degree of inflammation and in our daily search to feel great, minimizing inflammation is our number one goal. So, while you can take a supplement of just isolated curcumin, I suggest you simply use a dash of turmeric here and there in your favorite stews, soups, and smoothies to reap all of the benefits. Can Wisdom Teeth Surgery Cause A Thinning Of The Face? What Vitamin Is Good for Making Healthy Gums? This ancient herb is an excellent treatment for swollen gums, loose teeth, and other oral infections. Red, swollen gums that bleed easily are a sign of the gum disease gingivitis. If we were talking about heart disease or diabetes being this prevalent, we’d call those rates unacceptable. Brushing teeth is only short-term and can’t fix a cavity-causing diet. The most common trigger of swollen gums is gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. 5 Surprising Foods That Irritate Gums. CDC: Half of American Adults Have Periodontal Disease. Many of us, including dentists, think of gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis as solely a problem of dental health. They have been used as … Using a saltwater rinse may promote oral health and soothe inflammation in the gums. In general, the added sugars in most sweets—from cookies to sodas—are bad news for your gums, because the sugars bind to gums… But as it is for all food, it’s not as much the specific constituents in this spice that are solely responsible for healing, but the total package it comes in. A gum abscess is a pocket of pus and bacteria that forms due to an infection in the gums. Additionally, it’s rich and lusciously satisfying so it will also banish your cravings for sweets, too (because limiting your sugar intake is an important part of excellent dental health, this is a major bonus). Looking for a superfood that can help you get fewer cavities, improve gum disease, prevent oral cancer, and more? Ice Cream. Apricots are a good source of beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A. Cucumber juice works to help absorb the acid in your mouth, so your gums can begin to heal. A thin paste should have formed. Theresa Roberts, author of "ABC's of Bumps & Bruises, a Guide to Home & Herbal Remedies for Children," notes that adding vitamin A to your diet can help encourage your gums to begin healing and help prevent future gum problems. Other sources of vitamin C include grapefruits, lemons, limes, strawberries, broccoli and red bell peppers. 10 Things Your Dentist Probably Isn't Telling You. They are rich in vitamin C and calcium, which helps to reduce inflammation and battle gum disease. Why Am I Getting Cavities All Of A Sudden? 2018. Along with turmeric, spices such as cinnamon and ginger have also been studied for their anti-inflammatory impact. Sage has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may also help heal swollen gums and treat the infection. Adding certain foods to your diet also can help speed the healing process and improve the health of your gums. Do Certain Toothpastes Cause Canker Sores? You might already know that keto is great for your waistline, but what about your teeth? Add a little more water if the paste is too thick. A deficiency in vitamin A can contribute to bleeding, sore and swollen gums, because your body needs this vitamin to maintain healthy tissue. Periodontitis and diabetes: a two-way relationship. Suffering from bulimia can make you feel hopeless and out of options. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. I graduated from the Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, CA in 1987 and am a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), Academy of General Dentistry (Chicago, IL), American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), and Dental Board of California. Ginger supplies its fair share of anti-inflammatory constituents as well, helping to relieve gum pain and discomfort. You should try matcha. You can get your gums back to normal by brushing and flossing regularly and getting your teeth cleaned regularly. Gum tissue is naturally soft and sensitive. Oranges are a top source of vitamin C and adding one a day will help provide enough of this essential vitamin to heal your gums. It’s actually a constituent in the turmeric plant called curcumin that’s responsible for both the beautiful color and the healing effects of this plant. This means many things can cause sore gums. Turn off heat. 3. For those of you new to my community, I advise you to first rinse with water, then wait about 45 minutes before you brush. Bring water to a simmer and stir in turmeric. Sore and bleeding gums may be an early indication of periodontal disease and should be taken care of right away. Some essential oils may also … Cucumbers are a good source of many vitamins and minerals but they can also correct the acid imbalance in your mouth that often leads to bleeding and painful gums, notes Mary C. Hogle, author of "Foods That Alkalinize and Heal." Benzocaine is a medication that can numb sore gums, and it is the main ingredient in common oral gels, such as Orajel and Anbesol. Guava leaf mouthwash Guava leaves have long been an effective … A deficiency in vitamin A can contribute to bleeding, sore and swollen gums, because your body needs this vitamin to maintain healthy tissue. Causes Of Inflamed Gums. Other sources of beta-carotene include carrots, spinach and sweet potatoes. Swollen gums, or gingival swelling, is a painful condition in which gums are irritated, sensitive, or bleed easily. ", "Foods that Harm, Foods that Heal: An A to Z Guide to Safe and Healthy Eating"; Reader's Digest; 1997, "ABC's of Bumps & Bruises, a Guide to Home & Herbal Remedies for Children"; Theresa Roberts; 2008, "Foods That Alkalinize and Heal"; Mary C. Hogle; 1993. Periodontal Disease. A thin paste should have formed. Hydrogen peroxide. Cold foods can help to soothe your sore gums. Ipatenco holds a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in education, both from the University of Denver. Certain herbs and spices can be turned into home remedies for gum inflammation and pain. It is important to follow the instructions on the label … Mash up a banana for a pudding-like treat. Avoid having sugary foods … So please share this article and recipe with your loved ones and help others take back their right to good health! Cucumbers are a good source of many vitamins and minerals but they can also correct the acid imbalance in your mouth that often leads to bleeding and painful gums, notes Mary C. Hogle, author of "Foods That Alkalinize and Heal. I am excited to share my favorite spice with you below. If you feel pain in your mouth, you have gum disease, or you sense that any part of your body is inflamed, then please consider the great power your next meal has on your ability to heal. Gum … There is a legitimate, anti-inflammatory impact from eating a real, whole foods diet. Turmeric isn’t the only spice that is known for anti-inflammatory benefits. Eat cold foods. I'm on a mission to empower people everywhere with the same evidence-based, easy-to-understand dental health advice that my patients get. Vitamin C supplements and fruits rich in vitamin c like oranges can also be used to promote healing. 2015. Apricots are a good … Warm and cold compresses. While we can’t forgo all the acidic things in our diet, at least we have a plan to buffer the damage a low pH can potentially cause. Hi, I’m Dr. B, practicing functional dentist for 35 years. Store in a glass container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Heat coconut milk in a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Simmer for a couple minutes, stirring constantly and dissolving any lumps. Your gums are a window into the inner workings of your system. Jello, pudding, and cold soup are also good options. We have made every effort to ensure that all information we provide has been tested for accuracy, however, we make no guarantees regarding the results that you will see from using this information. There is a legitimate, anti-inflammatory impact from eating a real, whole foods diet. Serve immediately and store any leftovers in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since the process of inflammation is at the root of all major disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, I want you to take your meals seriously. This frozen treat harms gums, especially those that are already vulnerable. Continuing to eat these foods after your gums heal may help prevent future mouth problems as well. 2010;14(3):148-154. doi:10.4103/0972-124X.75908. Thus, proper treatments for inflamed gums is required, and considering the delicacy of your gums… It’s not normal for a population to be this sick! Dhadse P, Gattani D, Mishra R. The link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease: How far we have come in last two decades? Chamomile oil soothes the inflamed gums and reduces swelling and pain (12). A visit to your dentist is the first step. 2012. The immune system can respond to the issue that leads to the destruction of the gum tissue. Recent studies suggest that turmeric-containing mouthwashes may help you with your gingivitis or oral pain. A swollen gum around one tooth can occur for many reasons, including poor dental hygiene and periodontal disease. Speaking of sugar and all things acidic, while this particular drink isn’t acidic, remember that anything you drink that has an acidic pH (even just a slight one) to please be mindful about the timing of brushing your teeth. What they all have in common is YOU. Add a little more water if paste is too thick. What you eat is the greatest deciding factor as to whether you kick inflammation to the curb or not. Essential oils. This warm, comforting drink is a perfect after-dinner nightcap. This website’s content is not medical advice nor is it intended to replace medical advice. Essential oils. So, it is not just the curcumin exerting its healing properties, but what’s in the whole root. Fighting bulimia’s effect on teeth could be your first step to success. Apricots are a good source of beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A. What's The Best Mouthwash For Bad Breath? Try one of these home remedies to help relieve your swollen gums: Saltwater. Home remedies Saltwater. Cold foods may be easier on your mouth. Turmeric has been shown to be effective for inflammatory conditions and is safe for children, adults, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. While turmeric is commonly used to color foods or beauty products, its best place is in your medicine cabinet – or what I affectionately call: your kitchen! People use turmeric to quell the inflammation that is present in common conditions like high cholesterol, diabetes, osteoarthritis, depression, IBS, cancer, and, of course, gingivitis. In this article, learn about the symptoms and treatment options, as well as the underlying causes. Acidic foods, in particular, can cause irritation and even visible sores … Here’s a beverage that just might become your go-to elixir when you feel some aches or pains in your mouth. Turmeric contains minerals such as iron and potassium as well as fatty acids like linoleic and linolenic acids that together boost its ability to defeat the inflammatory pathways involved in gum disease. To think that the beautiful bright yellow, red, and earthy brown hues of spices not only look, smell, and taste great, but that they serve a medicinal purpose is fascinating! Rice, quinoa and couscous are also popular sides to add to any meal. Gum disease is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world—60% of us have it. KetoConnect sits down with Mark Burhenne, DDS to explain the benefits. People should visit the dentist if the swelling persists for more than a … Add fresh apricots to a fruit salad or top oatmeal or breakfast cereal with dried apricots. You can begin using it in a simple meal and beverage preparation today and reclaim your health one bite at a time. Bring water to a simmer. 2012:1–7. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, How to Relieve a Sore Mouth From the Side Effects of Amoxicillin, How to Care for Cuts Inside the Mouth Close to the Teeth. Certain acidic foods and new oral appliances can leave your gums feeling sensitive and sore, respectively. Managing stress, eating nutrient-dense foods, limiting processed junk and refined sweets, as well as maintaining a strong immune system through adequate sleep and healthy exercise habits is critical for your vitality. Cinnamon contains antibacterial compounds, which is helpful for preventing an infection in your gums. If your gums are inflamed, it might be because other systems inside your body are sick too. All rights reserved. If your gums are inflamed, it might be because other systems inside your body are sick too. What Should I Do If I Haven't Been To The Dentist Forever? National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. The accumulation of bacterial plaque in your mouth, especially between the teeth, can trigger inflammation of gums. Copyright © 2021 Leaf Group Ltd., all rights reserved. J Dent Res. You have the power to chart the course of your oral and systemic health by making healthy lifestyle choices. The way I see gum disease, though, is that it is the beginning of a systemic infection telling a story of inflammation inside the body. Add some cucumber slices to a salad or mix some chopped cucumber with onions and tomatoes to create a healthy salsa for chips or as an accompaniment to cooked chicken. 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