Gum Disease

Gum Disease: Natural Remedies and Holistic Support

Gum disease commonly occurs in two primary stages: gingivitis and the more advanced form, periodontitis. Gingivitis begins with inflammation of the gums—characterized by redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding—resulting from the accumulation of bacterial plaque at the gum line. If not addressed, this plaque mineralizes into tartar, which can erode gum tissue and promote the progression to periodontitis.

As the disease advances, gums may recede from the teeth, forming pockets that harbor bacteria. This allows for deeper infection, bone degradation, and eventual tooth loss. However, early intervention with natural remedies can slow progression, restore tissue health, and prevent complications.

Key Natural Remedies from Newtons Compounding Pharmacy

1. Calendula and Goldenseal Oral Rinse

Goldenseal and Calendula Oral Rinse for Gum Disease
Traditional Herbal Support for Gingivitis and Periodontitis

A natural oral rinse made with Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and Calendula (Calendula officinalis) offers a powerful, plant-based approach to managing gum inflammation, bleeding, and infection. Both herbs have long histories of use in traditional herbal medicine for treating oral and mucous membrane conditions.

Goldenseal: Antimicrobial and Astringent

Goldenseal contains berberine, a potent alkaloid known for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action.
Its key actions in oral care:

• Reduces oral bacterial load: Particularly effective against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, two key contributors to gum disease.

• Astringent: Tightens and tones gum tissue, helping reduce bleeding and swelling.

• Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm redness and irritation in inflamed gingival tissue.

• Supports healing: Promotes regeneration of mucosal tissue when used consistently as a rinse.

Calendula: Anti-inflammatory and Healing

Calendula flowers are rich in flavonoids and triterpenoids, offering gentle but powerful healing effects:

• Soothes irritated gums: Reduces pain, tenderness, and redness.

• Accelerates tissue repair: Stimulates new tissue growth and helps heal ulcerated or damaged areas.

• Mild antimicrobial: Helps control low-level infections and prevent plaque buildup.

• Anti-edematous: Reduces puffiness and swelling of the gums.

How to Use as an Oral Rinse

Diluted Herbal Tincture Rinse:

• Mix 10–15 drops each of Goldenseal and Calendula tinctures in a small glass (30–50 mL) of warm water.

• Swish gently in the mouth for 1–2 minutes.

• Focus on areas of inflammation or bleeding.

• Spit out after use. Use 2–3 times daily, especially after brushing or flossing.

Infusion or Decoction Rinse (Optional):

• Brew a strong tea using dried Goldenseal root and Calendula petals.

• Allow to cool and use as a rinse, up to twice daily.

2. Myrrh Tincture 
Used traditionally as a topical antiseptic mouth rinse or gum application.
Action: Antibacterial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory. Helps reduce bleeding and promote healing.
Use: Swish diluted tincture or apply infused oil along the gum line daily.

3. Coenzyme Q10 (50 mg twice daily)
An antioxidant that enhances tissue regeneration and supports healthy periodontal function.
Benefits: Reduces pocket depth, shortens recovery time after dental procedures, and supports gum stability.

4. Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (1000 mg + 500 mg, twice daily)
Essential for collagen synthesis and tissue repair.
Action: Strengthens connective tissue, reduces inflammation, and boosts immune response.

5. Vitamin E (400 IU, alternate days, topical use)
Application: Break open a capsule and massage the oil directly onto the gums.
Benefits: Soothes inflamed tissue and promotes healing when alternated with vitamin C or folic acid.

6. Folic Acid Liquid (topical use)
Apply with a cotton swab along the gum line every other day.
Action: Supports cellular regeneration and reduces gum inflammation.

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Essential oils with antimicrobial and healing actions may be used as part of a daily oral care routine. They may be diluted for use in mouth rinses or applied directly to the gums. These should not be swallowed or taken internally :

• Myrrh – Antiseptic and astringent

• Clove – Natural analgesic and antibacterial

• Balsam of Peru – Mucosal healer

• Tea Tree – Broad-spectrum antimicrobial

Newtons provides high-quality, organic essential oils suitable for oral applications.

Nutritional and Lifestyle Considerations

• Nutritional Support: Ensure adequate intake of Vitamin C, Zinc, Coenzyme Q10, and bioflavonoids. A deficiency in these nutrients can compromise gum health.

• Hydration and Saliva: Proper salivation helps cleanse the oral cavity. Avoid medications or mouthwashes that dry the mouth.

• Dietary Choices: Reduce intake of sugary and refined carbohydrate-rich foods. These feed oral bacteria and increase plaque formation.

• Smoking and Tobacco: Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco. These increase gum recession and damage oral tissue.

• Chronic Conditions: Manage conditions like diabetes that impair immune function and wound healing.

Oral Hygiene Practices

• Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice daily using proper technique.

• Floss once daily to remove plaque between teeth.

• Clean the tongue regularly, as it harbors bacteria similar to that on teeth.

• Use herbal mouth rinses with ingredients like Calendula, Sage, or Myrrh.

• Visit a dental professional for checkups and cleanings at least every six months.

Suggested Supplement Protocol

Newtons Compounding Pharmacy offers a complete range of homeobotanical blends, infused oils, essential oils, herbal tinctures, and nutritional supplements to support healthy gums and teeth.