Tips to avoid & cure bleeding gums
Strong & healthy gums are like pillars for bright & strong teeth & such ashinning smile can instantly win hearts. Health of teeth is completely depending on healthy gums. If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you are probably suffering from a slightly mild case of gingivitis. Gum bleeding is very common and many people suffer from it.
You have to give as much importance to your gums, as much as you give to your pearly white teeth. Gum disease begins with plaque, a sticky film of food particles, germs and saliva. If not removed, plaque will settle at the gum line. The germs will produce toxins that will make the gums red, tender and likely to bleed when brushing your teeth. The primary cause of gingivitis is the bacteria that coat your teeth, and if oral hygiene is poor, it forms a sticky white substance called plaque.
In Ayurveda, ‘bleeding from gum’ is known as ‘Sheetada’. It is one of the 15 kinds of gum disease (Danta Moolagata Roga).
The Pitta dosha is considered as the primary causative factor for bleeding gums. When the liver is lethargic, the Pitta that is distributed throughout the body starts to travel in one direction. When this congestion of Pitta takes place in the gums, they are unable to hold blood which results in bleeding gums. In the case that there is excess mucus or extreme acidity it may also lead to a bacterial infection that is identified as a kapha disorder.
Causes of Bleeding Gums
The following conditions can be causes of bleeding gums
Gingivitis (or pregnancy gingivitis)
Vitamin deficiency (such as vitamin C and K deficiency – may lead to scurvy)
Periodontitis
Poor dental hygiene
Gum disease
Poorly fitting dentures and unbalanced bite
Leukemia
Diabetes
Pregnancy and hormonal imbalance
Dry mouth
Tobacco use
Ayurveda Home remedies for bleeding Gums-
– Use of Clove Oil:
Clove oil is considered as one of the best home remedies for bleeding gums. Take a little clove oil and rub it on your gums or chew one or two cloves. You may feel a slight burning sensation, but it will reduce the inflammation to a greater extent.
-Triphala Kadha :
Triphala kadha (tea) is an effective Ayurvedic cure for bleeding gums and gingivitis. Astringent properties of Triphala is effective in arresting the bleeding. Gargle (Kaval) with triphala kadha for 3 to 4 times in a day to stop bleeding gum & cure gingivitis.
-Use Yashtimadhu (Licorice) :
Yashtimadhu (Licorice) helps in healing minor wounds & cleansing the mouth, improves secretions in the gastrointestinal tract and promotes salivation. Chewing on Yashtimadhu (licorice) root will help in getting a clean mouth and arresting tooth decay.
-Use herbal toothpaste:
According to ayurveda, toothapaste (Dantdhavan) should be tikta(bitter), kashay(astringent) & katu in taste, sweet toothpastes cause a thickening of the saliva and an increase in its calcium content, which can lead to tartar formation. And too much fluoride or baking soda can erode the gums. The best toothpaste is made with herbs such as neem, triphala, cinnamon, clove, fennel, babool, and pilu. You should use herbal toothpaste for clean healthy gums & teeth.
-Use Turmeric :
Apply turmeric directly to the affected gums. Turmeric is antibacterial & has wound healing property which is important in healing swollen & bleeding gums.
-Vitamin C for healthy gums:
Aamla(Gooseberry) & Lemons are rich source of Vitamin C and help to reduce inflammation. Squeeze the juice of half Aamla or lemon and add a pinch or two of rock salt. Massage this on your teeth and gums. Let it do its magic for a few minutes, then wash off by rinsing with warm water. Also take aamla & lemons internally to reduce deficiency of vitamin C.
-Take care of Gums:
Do not eat food which are more hard &can injure gums. Floss your teeth gently once in day. Use soft brush if your teeth & gums are sensitive. Brush gently using soft brush twice daily with herbal toothpaste. Avoid the use of tobacco and smoking.
-Sitkari Pranayama:
Sitkari Pranayam is extremely beneficial in diseases of tongue, mouth and throat. It is also very effective in curing dental problems like pyorrhea. Practice Sitkari Pranayama daily for health gums & teeth.
-Vegetables & fruits:
Fresh and raw vegetable and fruits not only are good for overall health they are also equally important for healthy gums as well. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and low in calories. Chewing raw vegetables help to improve blood circulation in gums, thus helping to reduce the bleeding of gums.