How to Get Rid of Gingivitis Naturally

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gum tissues and is considered one of the most common oral diseases. If left untreated, it can lead to gum recession. Although gingivitis treatments are available, statistics indicate that around 95% of adults suffer from this condition.

Gingivitis is mainly brought about by bacteria that cause inflammation by residing in the oral cavity. These bacteria infect the teeth, causing hardened plaque and tartar. Experts say harmful bacteria must be eradicated to treat gingivitis, and proper oral hygiene must be maintained.

This article will focus on several issues related to gingivitis, such as its symptoms, causes, risks involved, and successful home remedies for treatment.

Gingivitis Symptoms

The key symptoms of gingivitis include:

• Redness and swelling of the gum tissues
• Bleeding on the gums while brushing the teeth
• Pain or tenderness of the gums
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Pus forming between the gums and teeth
• Bad breath

In many instances, gingivitis leads to a worse condition called periodontitis. The symptoms of periodontitis are:

• Red or purple coloration of the gums
• Swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Tender gums

This form of periodontitis is known as the “Silent Killer.” Chronic infection and inflammation of the gums may lead to more severe health problems, such as

• Type 2 diabetes
• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Heart attacks and cardiovascular diseases
• Stroke
• Cancer
• Miscarriages and premature births

Causes of Gingivitis

The leading causes of gingivitis are:

1. Accumulation of Plaque and Tartar

Plaque and tartar buildup between and around teeth can damage the gingival tissues, which may lead to gum disease and even tooth loss.

2. Dental Plaque

Dental plaque is a sticky film produced by harmful bacteria accumulating on teeth. If left untreated, dental plaque can cause tooth decay and lead to periodontal problems such as gingivitis.

3. Changes in Hormones

Women may suffer from flamed gums because of fluctuations in hormones due to puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. These conditions increase gum sensitivity, predisposing you to gingivitis.

Also, Read: How Hormones Impact Your Sleep Cycle at Every Age

4. Non-Prescription Drugs

Oral health has been affected by the inappropriate use of medication. For instance, some antianginal agents cause gum overgrowth and contribute to the development of gingivitis.

5. Smoking

Experts assert that smoking daily makes one liable to an enormous risk of developing gingivitis. Investigations show that incidences of gum disease are higher among smokers than those who do not smoke.

6. Genetic History

Studies have shown that those with a family history of gingivitis are more likely to develop the condition in their lives (R). Genetics can play a significant role in gum health, so preventive care becomes more critical.

Also, Read: 8 Working Home Remedies To Remove Tartar And Plaque From Teeth

How to Get Rid of Gingivitis Naturally at Home?

Gingivitis is primarily treated by eliminating the bacteria that cause inflammation. Hence, it is essential to adopt good oral hygiene practices that properly clean your gums and teeth. Experts always encourage these habits, but they must begin once you identify the early symptoms of gingivitis.

Besides oral hygiene, several natural remedies can be used to treat gingivitis. These are typically safe and cause minimal side effects. Thus, they can effectively control and prevent the progression of the condition.

Below, we have compiled a list of significant home and natural remedies to help treat gingivitis.

1. Turmeric Paste

The healing properties of turmeric have been known for ages, and it is used as a medicinal agent to treat many diseases. Curcumin, the primary compound of turmeric, is a potent antioxidant with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it highly effective in oral health.

How to Use

1. Prepare a paste with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, ½ teaspoon of mustard oil, and a pinch of salt.
2. Apply this paste twice daily on your teeth and gums for best results.
3. You can also replace mustard oil with coconut oil or vitamin E oil for extra benefits.

Also, Read How to Treat Skin Boils With Turmeric

2. Sage

Sage is a highly effective anti-inflammatory herb extensively studied for its medicinal benefits. It has been proven to help reduce gum inflammation and promote oral health (R).

How to Use: 

1. Rub fresh sage leaves on the teeth and the gums.
2. Follow the method 2-3 times daily.
3. You may also prepare a paste by mixing sage leaf powder with sea salt and rubbing it on affected areas.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is excellent for cleansing and soothing the mouth, especially the gums and teeth. Regular usage can also remove plaque from the oral cavity.

How to Use:

1. Apply aloe vera oil directly on the affected area using your fingertip.
2. Aloe vera gel is a natural remedy to prevent gum bleeding and plaque accumulation.

4. Honey

Honey, rich in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is another natural remedy for gingivitis.

Manuka Honey has strong bactericidal attributes and is proven to be used in treating infectious diseases. It helps reduce plaque in the dentition and control bleeding in gums, thus providing a great natural and relaxing solution for gum health.

How to Use 

1. A small portion of raw honey or manuka honey applied directly over the infected part can reduce redness and contribute to healing.

5. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling has been an ancient Ayurvedic therapy for thousands of years and is still very helpful in oral care.

It acts by helping prevent plaque and has a direct beneficial effect on diminishing gingivitis and keeping healthy gums. It can also whiten teeth or prevent staining for a natural improvement in dental appearance.

Studies suggest that oil pulling is particularly beneficial for adolescents in reducing plaque buildup (R). Its antibacterial properties make it a highly effective remedy for combating gingivitis and supporting long-term oral health.

How to Use:

1. Choose a good oil suitable for oil pulling, like coconut oil.
2. Take a tablespoon of it into your mouth and start swishing.
3. Ideally, you must swish for 20 minutes, but swish as much as possible and gradually increase time.
4. Spit, rinse with water, and brush your teeth.

6. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent natural remedy against infection due to its high antibacterial and antimicrobial action. Being alkaline, it counteracts the mouth’s acid-producing bacteria to stop tooth decay and most forms of gum disease.

How to Use:

1. Prepare a paste from 1 teaspoon baking soda, several drops of lime juice, and just a bit of water.
2. Take some paste with your brush.
3. Brush your teeth well to remove plaque buildup.
4. Rinse well with water.

Conclusion

Gingivitis is a prevalent yet preventable oral health condition that, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications such as periodontitis and tooth loss. Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings, is essential for preventing and treating gingivitis.

In addition to the conventional treatment, many natural treatments can also be used against inflammation, retard bacterial growth, and help restore gum health using turmeric paste, sage, aloe vera, honey, oil pulling, and baking soda. This not only brings relief from the symptoms but ensures long-term oral hygiene.

Using an oral care regimen and incorporating some of these natural remedies will make it possible for you to overcome gingivitis and prevent its complications on the teeth and the gums.

Prevention is always the best medicine for a healthy smile and well-being, and hence, recognizing gum inflammation in its early stages is essential.

• June 2017
  Written by Prajakt
• March 2025
  Edited by Lakshmi Gayatri