HOME REMEDIES FOR BACTERIAL DENTAL INFECTIONS
A well-known old saying about health is that if health is lost something is lost. So, health comes first, needs to be taken care of especially from mouth. When someone talks about mouth it means means the oral cavity. What is Oral cavity? Oral cavity is the space in the lower part of the head that acts as the gateway to the digestive system. Various important structures such as teeth, the tongue and associated structures such as the salivary glands are located for mastication and speech. Saliva acts upon food start the digestion of carbohydrates. Mouth being one of the most natural openings in our body, represents a complex ecosystem harboring huge microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.
A proper balance of these microorganisms needs to be taken care of which coexist in a balanced state under normal conditions. They contribute to oral health in terms of promoting digestion and protection against harmful pathogens. Our lifestyle conditions, dietary habits, poor oral hygiene disrupts this balance which provides room for the growth and accumulation of harmful bacteria, which is responsible for numerous dental infections and dental diseases. Which bacteria cause dental infections?
Not a single bacterium is associated with dental infection. Actually, several types of bacteria are generally associated with dental infections. These bacteria exist in the biofilm commonly known as dental plaque; it is seen on the teeth and gums. Below the plaque is seen one of most common bacteria Streptococcus mutans. The following bacteria are involved in different dental infections.
1.Streptococcus mutans, a well-known bacterium, plays an important role in dental Infections such as dental caries, tooth decay.
2. Porphyromonas gingivalis
It is a Gram-negative, black-pigmented anaerobic bacterium and is considered a common pathogen of periodontal disease and periapical periodontitis. It is often isolated from subgingival plaque in patients with periodontitis. It is a major causative agent for periodontitis.
3. Prevotella intermedia
Prevotella intermedia is another bacterium associated with gum disease and dental abscesses. It contributes to the breakdown of gum tissue and the formation of pus.
This bacterium is often found in the plaque and gum pockets of individuals with poor oral hygiene or untreated gum disease. Dental caries, tartar, and gingivitis are caused by overgrowth of oral bacteria, usually Streptococcus and Actinomyces species, as a result of insufficient dental hygiene.
Gingivitis can worsen, allowing Porphyromonas, Streptococcus, and Actinomyces species to spread and cause periodontitis. When Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium species, and Treponema vicentii are involved, it can lead to acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis.
The herpes simplex virus type 1 can cause lesions of the mouth and throat called herpetic gingivostomatitis.
Other infections of the mouth include oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by overgrowth of Candida yeast, and mumps, a viral infection of the salivary glands caused by the mumps virus, a paramyxovirus.
4. Fusobacterium nucleatum
Fusobacterium nucleatum is a key bacterium in the development of role in Dental Infections, especially periodontal disease and dental abscesses. It enhances the growth of complex bacterial communities by acting as a “bridge” between early colonizers (like Streptococcus mutans) and more harmful bacteria (like Porphyromonas gingivalis).
It can bind to both tooth surfaces and other bacteria on account of its adhesive nature which plays a key role in plaque formation.
5. Actinomyces species-These bacteria are often involved in root canal infections and dental abscesses. They damage the pulp of the tooth, most sensitive part of the tooth, and cause chronic infections.
6.Treponema denticola is a spirochete bacterium. Severe gum disease (periodontitis) is caused by these bacteria. They lead to tissue destruction and inflammation.
This bacterium survives in the anaerobic (low-oxygen) environment of deep gum pockets.
8. Eikenella corrodens
This bacterium can sometimes exist in mixed bacterial infections, which cause dental abscesses and periodontal disease, leading to tissue damage and contributes to the spread of infection. This bacterium can be a part of polymicrobial infection.
9. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. It is usually transmitted through saliva. Sometimes severe form of gum disease or aggressive periodontitis which can lead to rapid bone loss is caused by this bacterium.
Acid Production: Bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus produce acid as they metabolize sugars. This acid dissolves tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
Inflammation and Tissue Destruction: Bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola trigger an immune response that causes inflammation, leading to the breakdown of gum tissue and bone.
Bacteria are too smart. They form a sticky biofilm (plaque) on the teeth and gums. It protects them from the immune system and allows them to multiply.
soft tissues of the mouth are invaded by certain bacteria like Actinomyces and Fusobacterium nucleatum leading to abscesses and systemic infections.
Risk Factors for Bacterial Dental Infections
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing a bacterial dental infection:
Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly allows harmful bacteria to grow and survive.
High Sugar Diet: Bacteria depend their life on sugars, producing acid that damages teeth.
Dry Mouth: Dry mouth is bad for dental health. Saliva has multiple functions as it helps wash away bacteria and neutralize acids. A dry mouth creates an environment where bacteria can flourish.
Smoking and Tobacco Use: Blood flow to the gums gets reduced making it harder for the body to fight infections.
Weakened Immune System: Susceptibility to infections gets enhanced by conditions like Diabetes, HIV, or other autoimmune diseases.
Untreated Dental Issues: Cavities, cracked teeth, and gum disease provide entry points for bacteria.
Preventing Bacterial Dental Infections using home remedies.
Tooth infection or painful gums can be relieved by oil pulling technique. This simple trick helps eliminate the bacteria in your mouth, draw toxins from your mouth and a good possibility to improve oral health.
Directions:
Place 1 tbsp. of virgin coconut oil can be swirled in the mouth for 20 minutes and the spit it out. Later rinse your mouth using warm water. The process needs to be repeated without swallowing it.
Note: Avoid using this remedy when you have an empty stomach.
2. Black Tea Bag
Using a black tea bag is another great way on how to minimize tooth infection. black tea is rich in chemical compound called tannins and antioxidants. They help relieve pain and inflammation. Antioxidants, can fight infection and improve oral health.
Directions:
Dip a black tea bag in some warm water for several minutes.
Then, remove the tea bag from the water and squeeze it out.
Place the black tea bag on your affected tooth
Let it sit on for at least several hours or overnight
The next morning, rinse the mouth using warm water mixed with salt.
Repeat this remedy once daily for a few weeks.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can be used to treat a tooth infection and it is considered as one of the best home remedies for tooth infection pain that you should try out! This is because this kind of vinegar contains disinfectant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve pain and inflammation in the affected area.
Method 1:
Add 1 tsp. of raw apple cider vinegar to a cup of water
Drink this solution twice daily.
Method 2:
Swish 1 tbsp. of raw apple cider vinegar in the mouth for several minutes.
Then, spit it out and ensure that you do not swallow it.
Finally, rinse the mouth with some warm water.
Repeat this remedy a few times daily. 5. Olive Oil
Olive oil contains anti-inflammatory properties. And, when it combines with clove oil with analgesic effect, you will have a great solution for treating the tooth infection. So, if you are looking for natural home remedies for tooth infection, you should not forget this remedy.
Directions:
Mix 1 tsp. of olive oil with 2 tsp. of clove oil
Stir it well until you get a homogenous mixture.
Then, soak a cotton ball into this paste
Place the cotton ball onto your affected tooth and leave it on for about 5 minutes
Repeat this process 3-4 times daily whenever the toothache happens.
Read More: 19 Ways To Use Olive Oil For Acne Skin & Scars Treatment On Face
6. Clove
home remedies for tooth infection According to a study [1], clove is a great solution for many dental issues, including a tooth infection. It contains analgesic, antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help reduce toothache, soreness and inflammation in the gums.
Method 1:
Soak a cotton ball in some clove oil
Place it on your infected area for several minutes.
Method 2:
Place a whole clove between the painful tooth and the cheek.
Chew it to release its juice.
Let it sit on in your mouth for more than 30 minutes.
Finally, rinse the mouth with warm water. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is packed with antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which are required for treating a tooth infection. Also, this oil improves the immune system to fight tooth infections and simultaneously stimulates the healing process. For the best result, you repeat either of the following methods 3-4 times daily.
Method 1:
Apply some oregano oil directly on your affected tooth
Leave it on for more than 15 minutes.
Method 2:
Mix 3- 5 drops of oregano oil in about ¼ cup of lukewarm water to make a natural mouthwash.
Swish it in your mouth for 10 minutes before spitting it out completely.
8. Garlic
Garlic contains antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great solution for a tooth infection. It helps reduce pain and simultaneously prevent the infection from spreading. You can repeat any of the following remedies 3- 4 times daily for several weeks. Method 1:
Place a fresh clove of garlic in the mouth and crush it using your teeth.
Chew it until your pain goes away.
Then, spit out the garlic clove and rinse the mouth using warm water.
Add some clove oil to your warm water to eliminate the residual odor.
Method 2:
Rub some garlic oil on your affected tooth.
Method 3:
Mix ½ tsp. of powdered garlic with about a pinch of salt
Then, apply this mixture directly on your affected tooth.
Let it sit on for about 10 minutes
Finally, rinse the mouth with mouthwash.
The compound called allicin in garlic can damage your digestive tract. So, you should eat garlic in moderation, and if you notice any irritation, stop using immediately.
9. Home Remedies For Tooth Infection – Salt Water
When it comes to learning home remedies for tooth infection and swelling, you should consider making use of salt water. Salt contains antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which help relieve inflammation and pain and prevent the bacteria growth in the mouth.
Directions: Peppermint
When it comes to reducing the pain caused by a tooth infection, peppermint works wonders. This is because it contains antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve inflammation and prevent the infection from spreading.
Directions:
Apply some peppermint oil on your affected area
Leave it on for a few minutes.
Alternatively, apply some fresh peppermint juice on your affected tooth.
Repeat either of these processes a few times daily.
11. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide contains antibacterial and disinfectant properties, which help kill off the bacteria causing a tooth infection. Besides, hydrogen peroxide can help relieve pain and inflammation. For oral health, using 3% hydrogen peroxide solution is recommended. To use hydrogen peroxide for curing tooth infection, you
Say no to Tobacco which is the key player for causing the risk of gum disease and other oral health problems.
Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth gets reduced by rinsing mouth with antibacterial mouthwash.
Dental infections are primarily caused by harmful bacteria that exist in the mouth when oral hygiene is neglected or other risk factors are present. Bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Fusobacterium nucleatum play key roles in tooth decay, gum disease, and abscesses. It is very important to understand how these bacteria spread cause infections. Thereby, steps are to be taken to maintain good oral hygiene, for protection of your teeth and gums from these harmful microorganisms.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure—so take care of your oral health today to avoid painful and costly dental problems in the future.
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