21 Best Home Remedies For Swollen Gums [Try These]

Swollen gums can be a painful and frustrating problem to deal with, but fortunately, there are 21 home remedies for swollen gums that can help alleviate the discomfort and reduce inflammation.

In this article, we will explore these remedies in detail, as well as discuss the causes of gum swelling and how to prevent it from happening in the future. By following these remedies and making some simple lifestyle changes, you can get your gums back to their healthy, pain-free state.

Best Home Remedies For Swollen Gums

1. Saltwater

A saltwater rinse is a simple yet effective remedy for swollen gums. Salt has natural antibacterial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and fight infection.

• Directions for use

1. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
2. Swish the solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds.
3. Spit out the solution and rinse your mouth with clean water.
4. Repeat this process 2-3 times per day until your gums are no longer swollen.

2. Turmeric Gel

Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Applying a turmeric gel to your swollen gums can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

• Directions for use

1. Mix a small amount of turmeric powder with water to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to your swollen gums using a clean finger or a cotton swab.
3. Leave the paste on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

3. Black Pepper

Black pepper is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe swollen gums and fight bacteria.

• Directions for use

1. Crush a few black peppercorns to create a fine powder.
2. Mix the powder with a small amount of water to form a paste.
3. Apply the paste to your swollen gums and leave it on for 10 minutes.
4. Rinse your mouth with warm water and repeat this process twice daily.

4. Almonds

Almonds are rich in vitamin E, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Eating a handful of almonds daily can help to reduce gum inflammation and maintain overall gum health.

• Directions for use

1. Soak a handful of almonds in water overnight.
2. In the morning, remove the skin from the almonds and eat them on an empty stomach.
3. Repeat this process daily for best results.

5. Green Tea

Green tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which can help to reduce inflammation and fight bacteria that cause gum swelling.

• Directions for use

1. Brew a cup of green tea by steeping a green tea bag in hot water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bag and let the tea cool down to a comfortable temperature.
3. Drink the tea slowly, swishing it around in your mouth to ensure it comes into contact with your gums.
4. Drink 2-3 cups of green tea daily to reduce gum inflammation.

6. Sage

Sage has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for gum problems due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

• Directions for use

1. Boil a cup of water and add a tablespoon of fresh or dried sage leaves.
2. Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes before straining it.
3. Allow the sage tea to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
4. Use the sage tea as a mouthwash, swishing it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
5. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

7. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is widely known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent home remedy for swollen gums.

• Directions for use

1. Extract the gel from a fresh Aloe Vera leaf.
2. Apply the gel directly to your swollen gums, gently massaging it in for a minute.
3. Leave the gel on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing your mouth with lukewarm water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

8. Clove Oil

Clove oil has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, making it an effective remedy for swollen and painful gums.

• Directions for use

1. Dilute a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil.
2. Apply the diluted clove oil directly to your swollen gums using a clean finger or a cotton swab.
3. Leave the oil on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

9. Amla

Amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, is a rich source of vitamin C, which can help to strengthen gums and reduce inflammation.

• Directions for use

1. Mix one tablespoon of amla powder with a small amount of water to form a paste.
2. Apply the paste to your swollen gums and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
3. Rinse your mouth with warm water and repeat this process twice daily.

10. Essential Oils

Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and peppermint have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce gum swelling and combat bacteria.

• Directions for use

1. Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil.
2. Apply the diluted oil to your swollen gums using a clean finger or a cotton swab.
3. Leave the oil on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

11. Baking Soda

Baking soda can help neutralize the acids in your mouth and reduce gum inflammation.

• Directions for use

1. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to your swollen gums using a clean finger or a cotton swab.
3. Leave the paste on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily until the swelling subsides.

12. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C and has antimicrobial properties, making it an effective remedy for swollen gums.

• Directions for use

1. Mix equal parts of lemon juice and warm water.
2. Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds, making sure it comes into contact with your swollen gums.
3. Spit out the solution and rinse your mouth with clean water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

13. Lawsonia Inermis Leaves

Lawsonia inermis, also known as henna, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce gum swelling.

• Directions for use

1. Crush a few fresh Lawsonia inermis leaves to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to your swollen gums and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Rinse your mouth with warm water and repeat this process twice daily.

14. Castor Seed Oil

Castor seed oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help to alleviate gum swelling and pain.

• Directions for use

1. Mix a few drops of castor seed oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil.
2. Apply the diluted oil to your swollen gums using a clean finger or a cotton swab.
3. Leave the oil on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

15. Babul Tree Bark

Babul tree bark has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat gum problems due to its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antimicrobial properties.

• Directions for use

1. Boil a piece of babul tree bark in water for about 10 minutes.
2. Allow the water to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
3. Use the solution as a mouthwash, swishing it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
4. Repeat this process twice daily until the swelling subsides.

16. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera Gel is another form of Aloe Vera that can be used to soothe and reduce inflammation in swollen gums.

• Directions for use

1. Apply a small amount of Aloe Vera Gel directly to your swollen gums, gently massaging it in for a minute.
2. Leave the gel on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing your mouth with lukewarm water.
3. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

17. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound, which can help to reduce gum swelling and alleviate pain.

• Directions for use

1. Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder with a small amount of water to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to your swollen gums and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Rinse your mouth with warm water and repeat this process twice daily.

18. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective home remedy for swollen gums.

• Directions for use

1. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water.
2. Use the solution as a mouthwash, swishing it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
3. Repeat this process twice daily until the swelling subsides.

19. Vanilla Extract

• Directions for use

Vanilla extract has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help to alleviate gum swelling and pain.

1. Dip a cotton swab into pure vanilla extract.
2. Apply the vanilla extract directly to your swollen gums, holding the cotton swab in place for a few minutes.
3. Repeat this process as needed throughout the day for pain relief and reduced inflammation.

20. Epsom Salt

• Directions for use

Epsom salt can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in swollen gums.

1. Mix one teaspoon of Epsom salt with a glass of warm water.
2. Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds, making sure it comes into contact with your swollen gums.
3. Spit out the solution and rinse your mouth with clean water.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

21. Toothpaste for Swollen Gums

• Directions for use

Using a toothpaste specifically formulated for swollen gums can help to alleviate inflammation and discomfort.

1. Apply the toothpaste to your toothbrush as you normally would.
2. Brush your teeth gently, focusing on the areas with swollen gums.
3. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after brushing.
4. Repeat this process twice daily for best results.

Why Is My Gum Swollen Around One Tooth?

Swollen gums around a single tooth could be caused by various factors, including:

• Food particles stuck between the tooth and gum
• Plaque and tartar buildup
• Tooth abscess or infection
• Gum disease
• Incorrect brushing or flossing techniques
• Trauma or injury to the gum

Identifying the cause of the swelling is crucial to finding the appropriate treatment. Consult a dentist if the swelling persists or worsens.

Swollen Gums Around Tooth Pain Remedy

To alleviate pain and swelling around a single tooth, you can try the following remedies:

• Gently brush and floss around the affected tooth to remove any trapped food particles or plaque.
• Rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution.
• Apply a cold or warm compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Consider using one of the 17 home remedies for swollen gums mentioned earlier in this article.

If the pain and swelling do not subside or worsen, consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.

What Is the Best Medicine for Swollen Gums?

The best medicine for swollen gums depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation. In general, over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can provide temporary relief. Additionally, using a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine or other antiseptic ingredients can help to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

For more severe cases, a dentist may prescribe antibiotics, stronger pain relievers, or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. It’s essential to consult a dentist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation.

Nutrition and Oral Health: Foods to Help Reduce Swollen Gums

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing swollen gums. Including these foods in your daily diet can help reduce inflammation and promote gum health:

• Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, which can help reduce gum inflammation and strengthen your immune system.
• Foods high in vitamin D, such as fatty fish, fortified milk, and egg yolks, which can help your body absorb calcium and maintain healthy gums.
• Calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds, which can help to strengthen teeth and support gum health.
• Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and green tea, which can help fight inflammation and protect gum tissues from damage.

Preventing Swollen Gums: Oral Hygiene Tips

Practicing good oral hygiene is essential to prevent swollen gums and maintain overall oral health. Follow these tips to keep your gums healthy:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under your gumline.
• Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and inflammation.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.
• Avoid tobacco products, which can increase your risk of gum disease and inflammation.
• Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to plaque buildup and gum inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources:

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