If your gums hurt, chances are you've already made an appointment at your dentist office. Gum disease is a serious issue and needs medical attention. In the meantime, however, you're probably interested in cutting down the pain or discomfort you're experiencing as much as possible. Give these three drug-free tips a try to boost your comfort level while you're waiting to see the dentist.
Salt Water
Salt water is a classic remedy for swollen, painful gums. The salt is a mild antiseptic that helps to kill off bacteria that are causing any infections or gum disease. Since the water is warm, it's also quite soothing for discomfort.
To use this remedy, mix a cup of warm water with ½ a teaspoon of salt. Swish it around in your mouth for a while, then spit it out. Repeat the process until all of the water is gone.
Once you finish this step, your mouth may feel a bit dry or desiccated. Wait at least a few minutes before drinking water to give the salt a chance to work its magic before you rinse it away.
Room-Temperature Food and Drink
Sensitive gums and sensitive teeth have a lot in common. Ultimately, both are caused by nerves being stimulated and sending pain signals to the brain. While you may have mild constant pain in your gums, you've probably noticed that trying to eat or drink makes it worse. This is because your gum tissues are already sensitive and the nerves are, too.
To make it easier on yourself, stick to warm foods and drinks. Avoid anything hot or cold, just like you would for a toothache. If having liquid come into contact with your gums hurts, try using a straw to prevent the drink from coming into contact with your gums.
Peppermint Tea
Lastly, consider brewing up a simple cup of peppermint tea. Peppermint has two beneficial things it can offer your gums right now: antibacterial properties and soothing pain relief.
Peppermint, like salt, is a mild antibacterial agent that's good for beating bacteria anywhere it's applied to. While peppermint tea is fairly diluted, drinking it throughout the day should help to curb bacterial growth in your mouth and may help to bring down inflammation in your gums. When inflammation is reduced, pain relief typically follows.
In addition, peppermint is very good at reducing minor aches and pains. The cooling effect peppermint has will help to ease the discomfort you're feeling in your gums. As long as your tea is warm and not hot, consider swishing it around your gums for maximum efficacy before swallowing it.
Taking care of your gums while they hurt can be tough, especially if you want to avoid taking medications. If your pain level becomes so high that you can't tolerate it, contact your dentist to get an emergency same-day appointment to ensure that your painful gums don't get even worse.
Share8 April 2018
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