Gingivitis is considered one of the most common health problems that plague the oral cavities. More than 50% of the entire population suffers from this disease at some point in their lives. This is an infection of the gums that rise from poor practices of dental hygiene. During the early stages, the disease is not that dangerous, but it can develop into more severe problems when neglected. This can even lead to loss of teeth when the structural component of the teeth is permanently damaged when the disease is continued to be overlooked.

This gum disease is commonly caused by bacteria that infect the gums resulting to inflammation. This happens when bacteria is allowed to grow inside the mouth as it feeds on the food particles left when teeth is not brushed properly. Plaque is allowed to form around the teeth caused by the debris and bacterial residue which may lead to infection. Other factors that make the gums more susceptible to infection include hormonal changes in the body such as during the period of menopause and puberty; when there is trauma; poorly fitted braces or dentures, and smoking.

A lot of the symptoms of gingivitis can be easily taken for granted because these are fairly common. These symptoms, which are usually observed in the early stages of the disease include red and tender gums which tends to bleed and become painful; color change in the gums; and halitosis. However, these symptoms are sometimes neglected because they can indicate the presence of other things and can happen on their own. That’s why a lot of people seek gingivitis treatment only after the symptoms are already advanced and severe.

Many of those who are still in the early stages of gingivitis are lucky since at this time, the disease is not yet that particularly harmful, hence gingivitis treatment is still extremely easy. Besides, it will take a long time before gingivitis will advance to the more severe periodontitis. Usually, treating gingivitis involves the rinsing of the mouth with some form of antiseptic, killing the bacteria that cause the infection. Dentists prescribe mouthwashes containing potent antibiotics, commercial alcohol, and other substances that aid in eradicating the bacteria in the mouth. The saliva has natural antiseptic properties that can kill bacteria hence utilizing potent chemical antiseptics to treat gingivitis is not needed.

There are a lot of natural herbs and oils with antiseptic properties effective as gingivitis treatment. Peppermint leaves can be used as a natural antiseptic, but peppermint oil in mouthwashes is more effective because of its high oil concentration. Peppermint oil is often used together with menthol to kill bacteria. Aside from peppermint, sage oil is also used as a natural antiseptic as part of a mouthwash to kill bacteria. Consumption of foods high in Vitamin C has been known to increase a person’s susceptibility to periodontal diseases. With this, gingivitis can be prevented and oral health will be improved greatly.