How to Treat Receding Gums: At-Home Remedies

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If you have noticed that your teeth look a little longer than they did before, it is likely because of your gums. Gum recession happens for many reasons including brushing too hard, teeth grinding, medical conditions, and more. 

Since gum recession affects the look of your smile you might be looking for ways to treat your gums to prevent it from getting worse. While your gums don’t grow back on their own, there are many things you can do to improve your oral hygiene and reduce the risk of further recession. Here are some natural remedies for you to try at home!

Oil Pulling – This is an ayurvedic practice that can help reduce plaque in individuals with gingivitis. To do this, swish a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes. This swishing “pulls” the oil between your teeth. When done, spit the oil out, rinse your mouth out with warm water, and brush your teeth.

Salt Water Rinse – This rinse is used to kill bacteria and to soothe gum inflammation. To do a salt rinse combine 1 tsp. of salt and 1 cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth with the mixture for 30 seconds and spit it out. You can do this up to 3 times a day.

Turmeric Gel – Turmeric contains curcumin, which is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric gel can help prevent plaque and gingivitis – which can contribute to receding gums.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse – A mix of water and hydrogen peroxide can help treat sore, red, or swollen gums. To use hydrogen peroxide for receding gums combine 1/4 cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup of water, swish for 30 seconds, and spit it out. This can be repeated two to three times a week.

Brushing & Flossing – Good oral hygiene is imperative to fighting bacteria that live in your mouth. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes at least twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and floss at least once per day to help remove debris between teeth that can contribute to plaque buildup.

If you notice that your teeth look longer or if you feel any sensitivity in your teeth due to receding gums, don’t wait to schedule a visit with our dentist for advice and treatment. We can measure how far your gums have receded to determine the most effective next steps. We can discuss natural remedies and traditional treatments to help stop or slow down the process. Contact us today.

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush or Electric Brush Head?

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It’s easy to know when to replace worn-out shoes or kitchen sponges or expired food but how often should you change your toothbrush or electric brush head? Often times, our oral hygiene doesn’t get as much thought as other areas of our routines. However, there a couple of things to keep in mind when it comes to your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head!

The American Dental Association and most dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months. Normal use wears down your toothbrush, causing it to become less effective at removing plaque from your teeth and gums.

Even though most people don’t like thinking about it, germs can hide and build up in your toothbrush bristles. This makes it extra important to change your toothbrush after you’ve been sick. If you continue to use the same toothbrush, you are opening yourself up to possible reinfection!

Taking proper care of your toothbrush can help lessen or eliminate bacteria build-up. After brushing, rinse off and dry your toothbrush thoroughly. Store it in an upright position, ideally so it is not touching other brushes. Antibacterial toothbrush covers are also a great way to keep germs at bay.

If you can’t remember how long it’s been since you replaced your toothbrush, take a look at the condition of the bristles. If they are worn out, fanned out, frayed, or discolored, that is a sure sign to change your toothbrush or electric brush head right away!

If you’re hesitant about changing your toothbrush because you don’t remember when you did last and the condition isn’t evident, rule of thumb is to just swap it! Changing your toothbrush often will help keep your teeth and gums healthy, but a bi-annual trip to the dentist is important! 

At The Center for Advanced Dentistry, our family dentists provide you with the cleaning and hygiene service you need to maintain or improve your oral health. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us today! We proudly provide service to patients throughout the Auburn, ME area.