Fighting Gum Infection with Nutritional Supplements

Gum disease, or gingivitis, is an inflammation of the gums that can lead to decay and tooth loss if left untreated. While there are prescription medications and other treatments to fight gum disease, natural supplements may also help you control this problem.

A lack of Vitamin C and D will definitely have a negative impact on gum health. In order to ensure that you receive the right amounts of all vitamins, a good-quality daily supplement is recommended. You can also get Vitamin C from green, leafy vegetables and citrus fruits. Many foods have Vitamin C added to help you get your daily allowance. Vitamin D is made by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight, so limited sun exposure is important in keeping your body, and your gums, healthy.

Stress reduction is a surprising way to help yourself to healthy teeth and gums. Stress tends to trigger overproduction of enzymes and saliva, which may harm your teeth and gums. Relaxation techniques, such as stress-relieving meditation, can help your whole body be healthier, including your gums.

For more advanced gingivitis, tea tree oil has been shown in clinical studies to help reduce inflammation when applied topically. Tea tree oil toothpaste can be brushed directly onto the teeth, although direct application of oil to the gums is not recommended. The toothpaste seems to help relieve swelling of the gums, which causes the teeth to be less exposed to bacteria.

Cranberry juice is also a natural aid to oral health. Besides the fact that cranberry juice contains so many natural vitamins, it has also been shown to help prevent plaque from sticking to the teeth, which is a major cause of gingivitis.

If gum disease is not treated in time, it can lead to severe damage to the teeth and gums, which can be repaired by restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry treatments. If the situation persists without receiving periodontal treatments, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

Source: Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist
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