Gingival recession, commonly known as receding gums is a medical condition whereby the gum tissues surrounding the teeth pull back or wears away from the tooth, exposing it or its roots. Bacteria builds up easily from gum recession as a result of the gaps formed between the gum line and the teeth. A receding gum indicates poor dental health which can lead to the loss of a tooth. This is a very gradual process which can take some time before being detected. Some common symptoms of this condition are shifted gums, stained teeth, long teeth, yellow roots, decay, etc.
Causes of gingival recession/ Receding Gums
This condition has been observed to occur in people with poor oral hygiene and sometimes those with good hygiene. This observation leads to the conclusion that receding gums stems out from different factors. These factors can be as a result of the anatomy of the teeth, pathology or physiology. They include:
Periodontal diseases
Found to be one of the major causes of receding gums, it results as bacteria infects the gum leading to the destruction of gum tissue and the supporting bone which holds the tooth in place.
Teeth clenching or grinding
Excessive force can be exerted on the tooth when clenching or grinding of the teeth occurs. This can lead to gum recession.
Tobacco
Using tobacco products leads to the sticky plaque on the teeth of its user. This plaque cannot be easily removed and can result in the recession of the gum.
Heredity
It has been reported that about 30% of the population is susceptible to this medical condition. This implies that this condition affects them regardless of their oral hygiene level.
Other causes include insufficient dental care, hormonal changes, aggressive brushing, body piercing, crooked teeth etc.
Home remedies used for receding gum treatment
Six effective home remedies for recessive gum treatment includes
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera reduces gum inflammation. It also activates cells that repair broken tissues. Infections are kept away from the mouth due to its antibacterial properties.
Usage:
Aloe Vera gel should be used for brushing. Use as mouthwash every day after brushing by adding water to the gel.
2. Eucalyptus Oil
This germicide can effectively protect the mouth from diseases which leads to gum recession. It reduces gum swelling as a result of its anti-inflammatory properties. Massaging the gum will not only cure gum recession, but it also aids the growth of gum tissues.
Usage:
Dilute one or two drops of the oil with a tablespoon of water and mix it well.
Dip your fingers in the mixed oil or use a soft toothbrush and massage the affected gum. Rinse the mouth with water.
3. Myrrh
Used in treating many oral diseases, its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help in curing gum recession.
Usage:
Crush some myrrh to powder. Mix with water to get a paste. Massage the affected gum with this paste and rinse with water.
4. Green Tea
Green tea possesses antioxidants which are vital in fighting periodontal diseases. It also has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling.
Usage:
Drink a cup of green tea every morning.
5. Clove Oil
The disinfectant properties of clove oil help fight oral diseases. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that can fight periodontal diseases.
Usage:
After every meal, chew a clove. Ensure its oil reaches all corner of the mouth while chewing.
6. Oil Pulling
Coconut oil or Sesame oil protectively coat the teeth which prevent the build-up of plaque. Coconut oil addresses dental infections, and Sesame oil helps in the removal of toxins which can prevent and heal tooth decays.
Usage:
Swirl and swish a teaspoon of sesame or virgin coconut oil in your mouth. Spit it out after it turns milky. This should be done initially for half to one minute. Keep increasing the time length till you can pull for 15-20 minutes. Rinse your mouth with saline water.
Disclaimer: Remember that all site tips found do not replace any medical advice. Before trying any tip you should seek medical advice.
