Gum diseases like pyorrhea and gingivitis are common in today's society. They are usually progressive disorders affecting the gums and underlying bone structure. Gum diseases can be successfully treated with herbs.

Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen gums that bleed easily, chronic bad breath, loose or shifting teeth, receding gums, loss of teeth, changes in bite pattern, and hot and cold sensitivity.

Causes of gum disease include plaque and tarter build-up, nutritional deficiencies, allergies, lack of fresh food, too much meat, refined food, or sugar in the diet, and poor brushing and flossing habits.

The best way to insure healthy gums is an improved diet. Eating lots of fresh, crunchy foods like celery, apples, cereal, seeds, and green salads can improve gum health. Always chew food well and avoid acid forming foods like tomatoes, soft drinks, and refined foods when brushing is inconvenient.

Another way to keep the mouth and gums healthy is to quit smoking. The chemicals that are present in tobacco smoke are corrosive and damaging. Chewing tobacco also contributes to gum disease and tooth decay. Nicotine is a poison substance that should be avoided.

Everyone should visit a dentist at least once a year. Getting the teeth cleaned by a professional is a must for removal of plaque and tarter build-up.

If gum disease is diagnosed, rub the gums with fresh strawberries, baking soda, sage leaves, honey, or lemon juice. St. John's Wort, peppermint, chamomile, or ginseng tea can also help. To control infection and stop bleeding use a goldenseal and myrrh powder poultice and apply directly to gum area. Other remedies include diluted tea tree oil, witch hazel, licorice root extract, calendula extract, aloe vera juice, turmeric, green drinks (containing chlorophyll), cranberry juice, Echinacea extract, propolis tincture, diluted clove oil, diluted eucalyptus oil, or grapefruit seed extract.

There are toothpastes on the market that contain tea tree oil and myrrh. Both are excellent remedies for gum disease. To insure that the toothpaste contains enough of the “active ingredient,” sprinkle a little myrrh powder on the toothpaste before brushing. The taste is bitter but is worth it to save the teeth. Use often to heal and protect.

Most commercial toothpastes contain sodium lauryl sulfate. It is added to increase foaming while brushing. This ingredient causes dry mouth which can lead to tooth decay. Look for natural toothpastes in health food stores that do not contain sodium lauryl sulfate.

Brushing after every meal is recommended. Everyone should brush at least twice a day. Flossing is also very important to mouth and gum health. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months and make sure the bristles are not too hard or they may injure your gums. Rinsing with salt water can also help keep gums healthy.

Sometimes dietary supplements are needed to protect and heal the gums. Minerals such as calcium, vitamins especially vitamin C and vitamin E, and antioxidants like CoQ10 are often taken to promote gum health.

* Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal remedies.