Natural Oral Care Products: A Treatment for Gingivitis?

According to The New York Times “Gingivitis In-Depth Report,” more than 75% of American adults have some form of gum disease, although most are unaware of it.1 Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that impacts the supportive gum and tissue around the teeth. Gingivitis is one of the first stages of periodontal disease, and it specifically affects the gums. If gingivitis progresses without treatment, it can transition into periodontitis. In this most aggressive stage, the bone and connective tissues become so badly damaged that tooth loss often results.

Before exploring the steps to reverse gingivitis (including natural treatment for gingivitis), it is important to understand this disease and its risk factors. What causes gingivitis? The condition begins with bacteria. While every healthy mouth has plenty of harmless bacteria, the balance shifts when bacteria becomes more substantial and thicker. This new sticky substance, known as plaque, is actually a barrier against bacteria to a point. However, when excessive plaque accumulates, it adheres to the teeth and gums, causing infection. The plaque turns into tartar, a rock-hard calculus that sits on the tooth surface and is difficult to remove. In either case, plaque and/or tartar contribute to gingivitis. Symptoms include red, swollen, and inflamed gums that may bleed during flossing and/or brushing. Gingivitis is often the cause of persistent bad breath (halitosis) as well.

While certain people may be more prone to gingivitis based on family history or hormonal changes (i.e. pregnancy can aggravate existing gingivitis around the second month and peak in the eighth month), the risk for this condition is typically dependent on oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices. Even meal decisions can make a difference. Some foods, especially those high in sugar, can increase mouth acidity, making it an ideal environment for bacterial growth. If this acidic residue is not removed quickly enough through brushing or flossing, the residual bacteria can contribute to a higher risk for periodontal disease. Other possible contributors to gingivitis include poor oral hygiene habits, poorly contoured fillings or crowns, tooth abnormalities, wisdom teeth and various lifestyle choices including—but not limited to—diet, smoking, and substance abuse. Since gingivitis can lead to periodontitis and subsequently possible tooth loss, treatment for gingivitis needs to be immediate.

Will a natural treatment for gingivitis work?

Herbal medicine can be traced back as early as 3,000 B.C. to ancient Chinese and Egyptian papyrus writings which describe medicinal uses for plants. During the “Golden Age of Herbalism,” which occurred between the 15th and 17th centuries, herbal plant remedies were used for a variety of ailments and disease.2 In the early 19th century, scientists took advantage of chemical analysis, extracting and modifying active plant ingredients. Today, botanicals are used in almost one fourth of all pharmaceutical drugs. Additionally, the World Health Organization recently estimated that 80% of people worldwide rely on herbal medicines for some part of their primary health care.3

Of the many dental products on the market today, many contain synthetic or chemical ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or Triclosan. SLS is a foaming agent that can be irritating to certain people, with some dental research linking it to increased gingival blood flow as well as mucosal irritations.4 Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently taking another close look at Triclosan, an ingredient designed to prevent bacterial contamination.5 Because the long-term impact of Triclosan is unknown, many consumers are looking for natural herb-based oral health care products.

Antibiotics are typically prescribed for the treatment of gingivitis, but these medicines can cause microorganisms to develop a resistance to the antibiotics, resulting in a more potent and dangerous bacteria. A natural treatment for gingivitis is an effective alternative therapy, as research suggests that microorganisms don’t develop the same tolerance or resistance to the antibacterial effects of essential oils used in natural oral health care products.6

Truly Natural® Ingredients

Gotu Kola

An herb that has been used for centuries to aid in wound healing.

Essential oils used in natural oral care products have numerous beneficial properties. Herbs are specifically known for their ability to stimulate the body, enhance surface circulation, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritation.7 For example, natural oral products containing gotu kola (Centella asiatica) enhance connective tissue rebuilding, while products containing pure essential oil of lavender and vegetable glycerine soothe and condition tissues during healing. Herbal remedies, backed by extensive research supporting their safety and effectiveness with tooth and gum problems, are a smart choice to help reverse gingivitis.

Dental Herb Company’s Natural Oral Health Care Products

Dental Herb Company believes that healthy teeth and gums can be achieved through the use of high quality all natural products along with proper oral care. The Tooth & Gums formula is the result of two decades of research and development. The all-natural essential oils and organic herbal extracts work synergistically to offer antimicrobial protection, tissue conditioning, and connective tissue rebuilding to aid in the treatment for gingivitis.

The Dental Herb Company oral care products are alcohol-free and particularly beneficial for those with special oral care needs. Mouth sensitivity and a higher susceptibility to infection are common among diabetics, especially for those who have recently undergone gum surgery or who are undergoing chemotherapy.

Choosing natural, herbal-based toothpaste and alcohol-free mouthwash is a safe solution to help reduce oral irritation, reverse gingivitis and enhance healing. Restore and maintain your oral health with the all-natural efficacy of Dental Herb Company Truly Natural products for Healthy Teeth and Gums. To help prevent and treat gingivitis, focus on smart lifestyle choices, brush and floss often, follow a healthy diet that is rich in vitamin C (known to positively impact oral health), and have regular dental cleanings and check-ups as recommended.


References:

  1. http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/gingivitis/print.html
  2. Baqai, Rasheed A., Grace Chia-Huei Chin, Eric Dashofy, Ron R. Katzir, Julie C. Reyes, and Chuan Wong. “Herbs: A Glimpse into Its Long History.” University of California, Irvine, n.d. Web. <http://darwin.bio.uci.edu/~sustain/issueguides/herbs/history.html>.
  3. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/herbal-medicine-000351.htm
  4. http://www.rdhmag.com/articles/print/volume-17/issue-5/columns/periodontics/toothpaste-ingredients-can-lead-to-lesions.html
  5. http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm205999.htm
  6. Meeker HG, Linke HAB. The antibacterial action of eugenol, thyme oil, and related essential oils used in dentistry. Compend. 1998;9(1):32-40.
  7. Stay, Flora P., DDS. “Integrative Dentistry: Herbal Therapy in Dentistry.” Healthy.net. HealthWorld, n.d. Web. <http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.aspx?Id=1472>.

The State of Oral Health Care Around the World

Proper oral health care is critical to good overall health; poor oral hygiene can contribute to the development or exacerbation of certain diseases. When severe gum disease is present, chronic inflammation and deterioration of bone and connective oral tissue generally results in tooth loss.  Around the globe, approximately 15-20% of adults, ages 35-44, have advanced gum disease, and approximately 30% of adults between the ages of 65-74 have none of their natural teeth intact.1 In addition, statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that approximately 60-90% of children and close to 100% of adults worldwide have cavities.1

Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease worldwide, with over 90% of the population affected. It is also the most common childhood disease, affecting over 70% of school children.2 Surveys of oral hygiene habits among children from 41 countries show a difference in frequency of brushing between North American and European countries. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that 78% of American adults brush twice daily, while only 44% of children do the same.3,4 European countries vary in rates of tooth brushing from a high of 75% of adults brushing twice daily in Switzerland, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Norway to a low of fewer than 46% in Finland, Romania, Greece, Lithuania, Turkey and Malta.5

The current state of oral health care in developing and developed countries

The staggering rate of oral disease is a health burden that needs to be addressed on a global level. Fortunately, the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Oral Health Programme is focusing on the importance of oral health around the world. The goal of the program is to find ways to aid the millions of people who are unable to receive preventative dental care due to low income or lack of access. In recent years, several European countries have deregulated oral health care services and made it impossible for many to afford. Furthermore, school dental services that were once offered in most eastern European countries have been discontinued, leaving children without oral health care coverage. Minimizing the prevalence of gum disease and its associated chronic health problems requires the availability of preventative treatment for everyone.1

Developed countries have the greatest access to oral health care with the United States, Japan and Canada having the highest number of employed dental professionals.6  Income levels seem to be a contributing factor in determining good oral health. Middle-class families often struggle to pay for the recommended twice-yearly checkups and necessary dental work, because many health insurance plans do not include dental coverage.

One bit of good news is that the number of dental hygienists entering the field in all developed countries has been increasing over the past decade as research continues to show the many risks associated with gum disease. Between 1987 and 2006, the number of dental hygienists in Canada increased by 200%, and in Italy, by a whopping 2207%.6 In the U.S., the Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted a 38% job growth in the field between 2010 and 2020—a percentage much higher than the growth average for all occupations.7 Some explanations for this substantial rise include a growing population, a higher demand for preventative dental care, and the need to maintain oral health (and prevent tooth loss) in the aging population.

Easy preventative steps for good oral health

From a global perspective, we have a long way to go to improve worldwide oral health.  Increasing awareness and change will take time.  The first step toward improving the global statistics of gum disease is to focus on personal preventative measures—one should never underestimate the importance of daily brushing and flossing. WHO clearly states that the high cost of dental treatment can be avoided by effective health preventative measures. Maintaining healthy gums and teeth in between dental visits is imperative to help ensure a better quality of life.

Dental Herb Company offers Truly Natural® oral health care products,  a professional strength herbal antimicrobial system that is alcohol-free and sodium lauryl sulfate-free.  Our products are made with precisely calculated proportions of pure essential oils that work synergistically with extracts of organically grown herbs to reduce oral bacteria, condition gums and help maintain healthy teeth and gums. Restore and maintain your oral health with an all natural oral health care from Dental Herb Company.


References:

  1. “Oral Health.” Who.int. World Health Organization, n.d. Web. <http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs318/en/>.
  2. “Dental Caries (Tooth Decay).” Nidcr.nih.gov. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, n.d. Web. <http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/DataStatistics/FindDataByTopic/DentalCaries/>.
  3. “Survey Results Reveal Oral Hygiene Habits of Men Lag Behind Women: WebDentistry: SmileFinder Annuaire Des Dentistes.” Webdentistry.com. Web Dentistry, n.d. Web. <http://www.webdentistry.com/Article1421-fra.html>.
  4. Huget, Jennifer LaRue. “Kids Should Brush Teeth for Two Minutes, Twice Daily.”Washingtonpost.com. The Washington Post, 17 Aug. 2012. Web. <http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-checkup/post/kids-should-brush-teeth-for-two-minutes-twice-daily/2012/08/16/883060a0-e7d0-11e1-9739-eef99c5fb285_blog.html>.
  5. Eaton, Kenneth A., and Monica J. Carlile. “Tooth Brushing Behaviour in Europe: Opportunities for Dental Public Health.” International Dental Journal 58 (2008): 287-93. Unilever.com. Unilever. Web. <http://www.unilever.com>.
  6. Johnson PM. international profiles of dental hygienist 1987 to 2006: a 21-nation comparative study. Int Dent J. 2009; 59(2): 63-77. (2.)<http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Dental+hygiene+around+the+world%3a+present+and+future+considerations.-a0245543673>
  7. “Dental Hygienists.” Bls.gov. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, n.d. Web. <http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm>.

The Connection Between Diabetes and Gum Disease

Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases in which either the pancreas produces an inadequate amount of insulin (known as Type 1 diabetes) or cells do not respond to the insulin that is produced (Type 2 diabetes). The result for both types of diabetes is a high blood sugar level. According to the American Diabetes Association, a total of 25.8 million adults and children in the U.S. currently have diabetes, and the number is rising. In addition, it is estimated that 79 million people have a condition known as pre-diabetes.1 With diabetes or pre-diabetes affecting close to 105 million Americans, the scope of this disease is very large.

Good oral health is especially important for people living with diabetes because their ability to fight oral infections is compromised. Diabetics are more susceptible than non-diabetics to developing serious gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.  Research suggests the relationship between oral health and diabetes is cyclical. In addition to a higher susceptibility to oral problems, gum disease in diabetics can exacerbate the diabetes by adversely affecting blood glucose control.2

What you should know about diabetes and oral health problems

A variety of oral health problems are associated with diabetes. Diabetics frequently suffer from mouth ulcers, cavities, dry mouth and fungal infections. Gum disease may go undetected as it does not always cause pain. However, there are warning signs diabetics can watch for:

  • Red, puffy, or tender gums.
  • Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing.
  • Persistent bad breath.
  • Gums that are pulling away from the teeth.
  • Puss in between the gums and teeth.
  • Noticeable changes in the way teeth fit together when biting.
  • Shifting or loosening of permanent teeth.

Any of the above symptoms can indicate the presence of gum disease.  The best way to prevent the progression of gum disease is to visit a dentist as soon as any of these signs appear. Diabetics should make their dentists aware of their medical condition; the dentist will be better able to provide proper treatment and make recommendations for ongoing care. Dental checkups should occur at least once every six months to ensure optimal oral health.

How to maintain excellent oral health with diabetes

Maintaining proper blood glucose levels is necessary for a healthy mouth and for good overall health. Controlled blood glucose levels help to prevent harmful oral bacteria from thriving and wreaking havoc on gums and teeth. A few key components of a successful oral care routine are as follows:

  • Brush at least twice a day with antimicrobial toothpaste.
  • Floss daily, and/or use an oral irrigator.
  • Use an alcohol-free antimicrobial oral rinse.

Antimicrobial natural toothpastes and mouth rinses, especially those made with essential oils, are ideal options for those with diabetes and gum disease; they offer maximum efficacy in minimizing harmful bacteria, and the essential oils provide soothing and therapeutic benefits. In addition, alcohol-free oral rinses  help maintain the natural balance of saliva, which is highly beneficial for diabetics suffering from dry mouth.

Dental Herb Company makes all natural oral care products you can trust. The formulas contain pure essential oils and extracts of organically grown herbs, without chemicals or additives such as sodium lauryl sulfate and alcohol. Dental Herb Company’s proven, Truly Natural products are as gentle as they are powerful. When used in conjunction with treatment to stabilize blood glucose levels, healthy hygiene habits, and routine professional cleanings, these solutions help provide a sustainable line of defense in combating gum disease  in diabetics.


References:

  1. “Diabetes Statistics.” Diabetes.org. American Diabetes Association, n.d. Web. <http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/diabetes-statistics/>
  2. “Diabetes and Oral Health Problems.” Diabetes.org. American Diabetes Association, n.d. Web.

The History of Oral Care: How Did Our Ancestors Try to Prevent Gum Disease?

Ever wonder when our ancestors began to brush their teeth or use toothpaste? Believe it or not, the toothbrush is one of the oldest devices still in use to this day, and it dates back to as early as 3000 B.C. Early Egyptians crafted devices from sticks and frayed the ends to rub against the teeth.1 This tool is the earliest recorded precursor of the toothbrush. Credit for the first “real” toothbrush, however, belongs to the Chinese. In the 1400s they used bamboo to craft the handles of brushes and attached a set of boar bristles for brushing the teeth.2

The popularity of this toothbrush spread to Europe where many Europeans chose to replace the overly abrasive boar bristles with softer horsehairs and even feathers.1 In 1780, the first modern toothbrush was created by William Addis.3 It featured swine bristles which were set through holes into a carved cattle bone handle and secured by wires. It wasn’t until 1938, when DuPont invented nylon, that the truly modern toothbrush as we know it was created.3 Rather than using natural bristles that were generally too harsh on sensitive gum tissue, this new synthetic material was soft, and therefore much gentler. Not only was it easier on the teeth and gums, it was a much more cost-effective option for mass production—especially in combination with plastic handles. By the 1950s, these toothbrushes became the new standard which, with relatively minor design refinements, remains in place today.

The Evolution of Toothpaste

Ancient Egyptians are credited with creating the very first forms of toothpaste. One was made with rock salt, mint, dried iris flowers and pepper crushed together into a powder that, when mixed with saliva, would clean and whiten teeth.2 Another documented tooth-cleaning powder was comprised of ashes from oxen hooves, myrrh, egg shells and pumice4. As unappetizing as these concoctions may sound, it is interesting to note that ancient Egyptians understood that effective tooth cleaning required abrasion.

The Romans and the Greeks used ingredients such as crushed bones and oyster shells in their tooth-cleaning powders. In an attempt to make their tooth-cleaning powders more palatable and more effective at combating bad breath, Romans added powdered bark and charcoal to their formulations.8 The Chinese and Indians were also creating tooth-cleaning powders at around 500 B.C. The Chinese added ginseng and herbal mints to their powders for flavor.9 Use of these tooth-cleaning powders continued until the 1800s when people began experimenting with new additives, such as soap10. In the 1850s, the first actual toothpaste was sold to consumers in jars. By 1873, it was mass-produced by Colgate.11

Today, there are seemingly endless varieties of toothpaste available to appeal to different consumer preferences while helping people to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The array of toothpastes consumers can choose from is enough to make one’s head spin: sensitivity protection, cavity protection, tartar control, plaque control, gum defense, enamel protection, enamel repair, multi-protection, whitening power, night protection, and clinical-strength. Not only do the varieties offer specific purposes, they also come in different consistencies—pastes, gels, liquid gels and even paste/gel combinations. In addition, consumers must decide between varieties that boast the addition or omission of various ingredients. There are toothpastes with mouthwash, baking soda, or peroxide added. Many of these are formulated with alcohol and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). In 2011, there were 353 varieties of toothpaste offered by retailers12. So, when it comes to choosing something that plays such a crucial role in the treatment of gum disease,  how do we know what to choose?

Preventing Gum Disease in the 21st Century

For healthy teeth and gums, it is smart to choose an alcohol-free, SLS-free product that promotes exceptional oral health by minimizing gum disease-causing bacteria within the mouth. Preventing gum disease the natural way begins with oral care products made by Dental Herb Company. Using only the purest and highest-quality natural ingredients, Dental Herb Company products are effective in helping to prevent gum disease when combined with regular flossing and dental hygiene maintenance. These alcohol-free, Truly Natural® products are the smartest choice for healthy teeth and gums.


References:

  1. “History of Toothbrushes and Toothpastes.” Colgate.com. Colgate, 12 June 2006. Web. <http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/Oral-and-Dental-Health-Basics/Oral-Hygiene/Brushing-and-Flossing/article/History-of-Toothbrushes-and-Toothpastes.cvsp>.
  2. Blain, Rebecca. “Dental Hygiene, an Ancient Practice – The History of the Toothbrush.”Ezinearticles.com. Ezine Articles, n.d. Web. <http://ezinearticles.com/?Dental-Hygiene,-an-Ancient-Practice—The-History-of-the-Toothbrush&id=18906>.
  3. “The Toothbrush: An Oral Hygiene History.” Dentistry.com. Futuredontics, Inc., n.d. Web. <http://www.dentistry.com/daily-dental-care/dental-hygiene/the-toothbrush-an-oral-hygiene-history>.
  4. Connelly, D.D.S., Thomas P. “The History of Toothpaste: From 5000 BC to the Present.”The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 02 Sept. 2010. Web. <http://www.huffingtonpost.com/thomas-p-connelly-dds/mouth-health-the-history-_b_702332.html>.

Can Your Diet Help Prevent Periodontal Disease?

It’s a misconception that taking care of your oral health simply means practicing good hygiene habits. While it is true that regular brushing and flossing in combination with routine professional cleanings are of utmost importance, the health of your teeth and gums involves much more. Your gums are a reliable reflection of your overall health, and they suffer if there are any nutritional deficiencies in your diet. When considering the best course of action to fight off periodontal disease, get to the root of the problem by adopting a whole body approach.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to allowing your bodily systems to thrive. When everything is functioning as it should, your natural defenses against all forms of illness and inflammation are substantially strengthened. Healthy gum tissue is less likely to allow penetration of gingivitis-causing bacteria. Adhering to a well-balanced diet is one of the best things you can do to help ensure exceptional oral health.

Natural Treatment for Periodontal Disease

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that assists in repairing connective tissue and regenerating bone—both of which are important to gum health. A deficiency of vitamin C is sometimes linked to the development of periodontal disease. A study in the Journal of Periodontology showed just how important this vitamin is to oral health. Researchers examined 12,419 American adults and found that those who consumed less than the daily recommended value (60mg/day) of Vitamin C were one-and-a-half times more likely to develop severe gingivitis than those who consumed more than 180mg per day.1

Vitamin D is another nutrient that is crucial to good oral health because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers at Boston University looked at the correlation between vitamin D intake and gingivitis and found that those with higher levels of vitamin D in their blood were less susceptible to developing gum inflammation.2

The antioxidant coenzyme Q10 is another beneficial nutrient to have in your diet, and it is primarily found in fish, meat, and in the germs of whole grains. A study from Osaka University in Japan provided evidence that a deficiency of the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 in the diet could be a contributing factor in the development of periodontal disease. The three-week study examined the effects of applying a topical coenzyme Q10 on gum tissue and demonstrated reductions in both inflammation and infection.3

It is clear that a diet rich in antioxidants is beneficial for a healthy mouth, but it is also important to make sure to get plenty of whole grains and calcium. Whole-grain foods are believed to play a role in the prevention of periodontal disease by reducing the overall amount of bodily inflammation.4  Calcium is critical in strengthening bone mass below the gum line and reducing the amount of decay caused by bacteria. Conversely, inadequate levels of dietary calcium cause periodontal disease to worsen.5

Dietary guidelines and tips that can boost your oral health and help prevent periodontal disease

  • Consume plenty of foods rich in vitamin C
  • Increase your intake of organic vegetables
  • Choose whole-grain products over those made with white flour
  • Get plenty of calcium, either through low-fat dairy products or dark, leafy greens
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Avoid sodas and sugary drinks
  • Brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day
  • Don’t smoke or use tobacco products
  • Choose all-natural oral care products over commercial brands

Consuming a well-balanced diet in conjunction with good hygiene habits is the best choice when it comes to natural treatment for periodontal disease. A well-balanced diet equips your body with the tools that it needs to effectively fight against infection and inflammation throughout the body, including in your mouth. All-natural oral care products like those made by Dental Herb Company are another important tool in the fight against periodontal disease. Dental Herb Company products are made from the highest quality essential oils and herbal extracts, and proven to be effective in maintaining optimal oral health. Integrate these natural oral care solutions into your healthier lifestyle and see what a difference choosing the natural path can make.


References:

  1. J Periodontol. 2000 Aug;71(8):1215-23. Dietary vitamin C and the risk for periodontal disease. Nishida M, Grossi SG, Dunford RG, Ho AW, Trevisan M, Genco RJ. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10972636
  2. Dietrich, T., M. Nunn, B. Dawson-Hughes, and HA Bischoff-Ferrari. “Association between Serum Concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and Gingival Inflammation.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 82 (2005): 575-80.Http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Web. <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16155270>.
  3. Effect of topical application of coenzyme Q10 on adult periodontitis Mol Aspects Med. 1994;15 Suppl:s241-8. Effect of topical application of coenzyme Q10 on adult periodontitis. Hanioka T, Tanaka M, Ojima M, Shizukuishi S, Folkers K. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7752836
  4. Am J Clin Nutr. 2006 Jun;83(6):1395-400. Whole-grain and fiber intakes and periodontitis risk in men. Merchant AT, Pitiphat W, Franz M, Joshipura KJ. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16762952
  5. J Periodontol. 2000 Jul;71(7):1057-66. Calcium and the risk for periodontal disease. Nishida M, Grossi SG, Dunford RG, Ho AW, Trevisan M, Genco RJ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10960010