Gum and dental abscesses are painful conditions that can result in infections around the gums and teeth. Some home remedies can help alleviate symptoms or treat the infection. However, some home remedies may be ineffective or even harmful. Here’s what you need to know about home remedies for gum and dental abscesses:
Effective Home Remedies
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing with warm water mixed with a teaspoon of salt can help alleviate infections around the gums and teeth. Saltwater rinses cleanse the infected area and reduce inflammation.
- Herbal Teas: Herbal teas rich in antioxidants can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Particularly, sage, chamomile, and green tea can be beneficial for gum infections.
- Peppermint Oil or Peppermint Tea Applied to Gums: Peppermint oil or peppermint tea applied to the gums can reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Considerations
- Pain Relievers like Aspirin: Pain relievers with blood-thinning properties like aspirin may increase gum bleeding and the risk of infection.
- Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out mouth sores and cause irritation, potentially increasing the risk of infection.
- Baking Soda: The use of baking soda for gum infections may disrupt the mouth’s pH balance and damage tooth enamel.
- Clove Oil: When applied to the gums, clove oil may cause skin sensitivity and lead to side effects.
Before using home remedies, it’s always important to consult with your dentist. Additionally, while home remedies may help alleviate symptoms, they may not address the root cause of the issue. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or other symptoms, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional.
