What Causes Swollen Gums?
Swollen gums are commonly caused by:
Plaque and tartar in your mouth can lead to gum swelling (Gingivitis) When the gingival infection progresses, gum swelling is sustained in the mouth (Periodontitis) Viral or fungal infections Irritation due to dental fixtures Pregnancy Allergies and sensitivity to dental products or food Gum injury (1), (2)
Symptoms For Swollen Gums
The common symptoms of this condition include:
Bleeding of the gums Red and swollen gums Pain Increase in the gaps between the teeth Bad breath (1), (2)
Here are 14 of the most effective home remedies that can relieve swollen gums.
Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Swollen Gums
1. Salt Water
Saltwater is one of the most commonly used remedies for oral problems. It neutralizes the mouth’s pH and soothes inflamed gums (3). A saltwater rinse was also found to be beneficial in preventing swelling of the alveolar bone after tooth extraction (4). Hence, it may help reduce swelling around the gums. However, more scientific studies are needed to determine the effect of saltwater rinse on gingivitis. Note: Remember that the relief will only be temporary with this remedy.
1 tablespoon salt A glass of warm water
Add the salt to a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth with it. Do this in the morning and at night, after having your meals.
2. Clove Oil
Clove oil is another age-old home remedy that is often used to treat swollen gums. It has antibacterial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce infection and swelling around the gums (5). 2-3 drops of clove oil You can also use clove oil mixed with black pepper to decrease inflammation and pain. Experts also recommend chewing on cloves to get relief. Reapply every few hours.
3. Ginger
Ginger possesses antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can help reduce the swelling in your gums (6).
A small piece of ginger 1/2 teaspoon salt
Do this 2-3 times a day.
4. Baking Soda
Baking soda has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that can help treat the infection causing the swelling. It also reduces the inflammation of your gums and soothes the tender skin. Studies show that baking soda significantly reduces dental plaque and gingival inflammation (7), (8).
1 teaspoon baking soda A pinch of turmeric
Repeat this every morning and every evening.
5. Lemon Juice
Lemon contains antimicrobial compounds (9). It can help kill the microbes causing the infection and the resultant swelling in your gums. It also balances the pH in your mouth.
1 tablespoon lemon juice A glass of warm water 1-2 drops rose flower essence (optional)
Mix the lemon juice with water and gargle with this solution. Gargle twice every day until you get relief.
6. Essential Oils
Oils of chamomile, tea tree, and peppermint can work wonders in relieving pain in the gums. Tea tree and peppermint oils are strong antimicrobial agents (10), (11). Chamomile oil soothes the inflamed gums and reduces swelling and pain (12).
2 drops chamomile essential oil 2 drops tea tree essential oil 2 drops peppermint essential oil A glass of warm water
Use this mouthwash twice a day.
7. Lawsonia Inermis (Henna) Leaves
Rat studies showed that Lawsonia inermis (henna) leaf extracts can help in healing gingivitis (13). Hence, these leaves can help in reducing swelling and pain around the gums.
Few Lawsonia inermis (henna) leaves A glass of water
Do this two times a day.
8. Castor Seed Oil
Camphor is an analgesic and has a long history of use as a remedy for gum and tooth disorders (14). Castor oil exerts anti-inflammatory effects on the swelling (15).
1 camphor tablet A few drops castor seed oil
Repeat this once every day.
9. Babul (Acacia Arabica) Tree Bark
Ayurveda recommended chewing the Babul (or babool) bark to keep your teeth clean and healthy. The antibacterial activity of acacia gum could help inhibit the growth of periodontal pathogens (16). Using this remedy will give you relief from the inflammation that comes with swollen gums.
1-inch piece of Babul tree bark A glass of water
Rinse your mouth with this 3-4 times a day.
10. Aloe Vera Gel
The gel extracted from this wonder plant has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It heals the swelling and tenderness in your gums and kills the harmful bacteria (17). An aloe leaf Apply aloe gel twice a day.
11. Turmeric
Turmeric is a strong antimicrobial agent and can help reduce inflammation and gingivitis (18).
1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon mustard oil
Repeat this twice a day.
12. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains mild acids that restore the pH balance in your mouth. It also exhibits antimicrobial effects against oral pathogens (19), (20). This reduces the infection and the swelling in your gums.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar A glass of water
Mix the vinegar with water and use this to rinse your mouth. Rinse with ACV 2-3 times in a day.
13. Vanilla Extract
Vanillin, the principal component of vanilla, exhibits antibacterial properties (21). Another study found that vanillin showed significant antibacterial properties when used as a component in a mouthwash (22). Thus, it can not only keep oral bacteria at bay but also reduce the swelling in the gums. 1-2 drops vanilla extract Reapply twice a day.
14. Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is known to soothe inflammation and pain (23). Hence, it can help reduce the swelling around the gums.
1 teaspoon Epsom salt A glass of warm water
Mix the Epsom salt in water and gargle with this solution. Gargle with this every morning and at night, before going to bed. Natural remedies are one way to treat swollen gums. You can not only treat the painful symptoms but also get relief using simple ingredients you have at home.
Preventive Tips For Gum Swelling And Gum Bleeding
Try the following tips to prevent gum bleeding and swelling. Despite following these tips, if you still notice bleeding and swelling of the consult your healthcare provider to understand the underlying cause of this condition. Is Listerine good for swollen gums? Check out the infographic to know more about what to do and what to avoid when suffering from swollen gums. Listerine is an antiseptic mouthwash that may help inhibit bacterial growth and improve swollen gums caused due to an infection in its early stages. Does hydrogen peroxide help swollen gums? Yes, 3% hydrogen peroxide used as a rinse may help improve swollen gums. Is garlic good for swollen gums? Yes, garlic has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling in the gums (24).
