How to Get Rid of Gingivitis Fast? Best Solutions and Tips

Gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, is characterized by inflamed gums that lead to redness, swelling, and bleeding.

If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to more severe forms of gum disease, ultimately resulting in tooth loss. 

Alarmingly, almost half of adults aged 30 and older—47.2% according to NIH MedlinePlus statistics—suffer from some form of gum disease.

Causes:

• Plaque Build-Up: Mainly caused by bacteria from food interacting with mouth bacteria.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Insufficient brushing and flossing allow plaque to harden into tartar.
• Tobacco Use: Affects gum tissue health and increases infection risk.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Particularly a lack of vitamin C can weaken gums.
• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, hormonal changes, and immune-related diseases heighten risk.
• Medications: Some can cause dry mouth or gum changes, promoting gingivitis.

To significantly improve symptoms of gingivitis within a week, adhere to the following steps:

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and spend at least two minutes during each session. Employ a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent further irritation to your gums.
2. Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where a toothbrush might not reach, reducing the risk of gingivitis.
3. Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash: Incorporate an antiseptic mouthwash into your daily routine to help reduce the bacteria that cause gingivitis. Swish thoroughly for 30 seconds to a minute after brushing and flossing.
4. Adjust Your Diet: Reduce intake of sugary and starchy foods to decrease plaque-forming bacteria in the mouth. Emphasize a balanced diet rich in vitamins A and C to support gum health.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps in saliva production, a natural defense against bacteria.
6. Quit Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. Stopping smoking can greatly improve oral health.
7. Reduce Stress: Stress weakens the body's immune system, making it harder to fight off infections like gingivitis. Find stress-reduction techniques that work for you.
8. Seek Professional Care: If symptoms persist, consult a dentist. They can perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar build-up and may prescribe medicated mouthwashes or antibiotics if necessary.

Addressing gingivitis from the comfort of your home involves a combination of diligent oral hygiene and natural remedies that can help soothe inflammation and reduce bacteria.

Here’s how you can aim to improve gingivitis symptoms within a week using home remedies:

1. Salt Water Rinses: Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and use it as a mouthwash twice daily. Salt is known for its natural disinfectant properties, which can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and soothe inflamed gums.
2. Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste and use it to brush your teeth. Baking soda helps neutralize acids in the mouth, reducing the risk of gum disease and improving breath.
3. Tea Tree Oil Toothpaste: Using toothpaste that contains tea tree oil can help reduce gum bleeding and gingivitis due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Ensure you're not allergic to tea tree oil before using it.
4. Aloe Vera Mouthwash: Rinse with aloe vera juice to reduce gum inflammation. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe gum irritation. Ensure the aloe vera juice is pure and free from added sugars.
5. Cranberry Juice: Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice can help prevent bacteria from sticking to the teeth, thanks to its high polyphenol content. Limit to a small glass a day to avoid excessive sugar intake.
6. Oil Pulling: Swish a tablespoon of coconut, sesame, or olive oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes each morning before brushing your teeth. Oil pulling can reduce bacteria and plaque that lead to gingivitis.
7. Increase Vitamin C Intake: Consuming foods high in Vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and kale, can strengthen your gums and reduce bleeding. Vitamin C is crucial for gum health and immune function.