Gingivits, which is an inflammation of the gums, is a mild form of gum disease.  Some people with Gingivitis may not realize that they have it because it may not be severe.  If Gingivitis goes untreated, the person may develop a more serious dental condition such as Periodontis, or even tooth loss.  It's crucial to take care of your teeth if you do develop Gingivitis because further damage to your teeth can put a dent in your wallet.

A lot of people don't realize that they have Gingivitis because their teeth or gums may not be in pain.  Healthy gums are light pink and firm, but red, inflamed gums are indications of Gingivitis.  Signs of Gingivitis may include:

• Swollen, puffy, or red gums
• Gums that bleed after you brush or floss them
• Loose Teeth
• Receding gums
• Gums that may be tender
• Bad breath
• Pain when chewing
• Sensitive teeth
• Pus between gums and teeth

Poor oral hygiene is usually the primary cause of Gingivitis.  If you don't keep your mouth clean, food can get trapped between your teeth and cause plaque build-up.  Plaque is a form of bacteria and, if it hardens, it can become tartar.  Tartar usually develops below the gum line and can cause Gingivitis or another gum infection.  Common causes for Gingivitis can include:

• Poor dental hygiene
• Gum injury
• Hormonal changes (this can cause the gingiva to become more sensitive and increase the risk of inflammation)
• Certain diseases (like Cancer, Diabetes, or HIV)
• Certain drugs or medications
• Smoking cigarettes
• Stress
• Poor nutrition
• Aging
• Substance abuse
• Viral or fungal infections

• It is very beneficial to keep proper oral hygiene to help remedy Gingivitis.  Brushing your teeth 2-3 times every day, and flossing at least once a day is recommended to keep your mouth clean and healthy.  In addition to maintaining oral health, you can use some of the remedies below to help get rid of Gingivitis. 
• Sea salt can be an effective remedy for Gingivitis because it has antiseptic and antibacterial properties.  Not only does it help draw out infections, but it also can help to treat swollen or puffy gums.  Mix 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt in a glass of lukewarm water and swish this in your mouth every morning until you see positive results. 
• Similar to the above remedy, you can mix the juice from a whole lemon with a glass of warm water.  Rinse this solution around in your mouth after brushing your teeth, so it acts like a natural mouth wash.  Do this twice daily and the anti-inflammatory properties in lemons may help soothe bleeding or receding gums. 
• Oil pulling, which is a popular Ayurvedic remedy, can help reduce the bacteria that causes Gingivitis.  You can use sesame oil or organic, non-hydrogenated coconut oil.  Place 1 tablespoon of the desired oil in your mouth and swish it around for about 15-20 minutes.  You can do this every morning before brushing your teeth for about a month to help remedy Gingivitis.
• Cloves can be very beneficial for your teeth and gums because they have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antioxidant, and analgesic properties.  Chewing 2-3 cloves about 3 times daily can help treat Gingivitis. Alternatively, you can rub clove oil on your gums twice daily, rinsing your mouth out with warm water after leaving the oil on for a few minutes. 
• Baking soda is a common home remedy for Gingivitis because it can neutralize the acids in the mouth, which reduces the risk of developing gum disease or tooth decay.  Because baking soda can be a bit abrasive, it is best to use it gently with a bit of olive oil.  Mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with a little bit of warm water or olive oil, gently rub it on the teeth and gums, and rinse your mouth out with warm water after a few minutes.  Do this 2-3 times a week. 
• Guava leaves have been known to help remedy toothaches and gum disease because they have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and analgesic properties.  There is also something in the leaves that can act as an anti-plaque agent.  Wash a couple leaves, chew them up, and spit them out.  Do this twice a day for a couple weeks. 

• Dark Leafy Greens (spinach, kale, & chard)
• Broccoli
• Green Tea
• Almonds
• Brazil Nuts
• Cashews
• Fresh Cranberries
• Oranges 
• Strawberries
• Dark Berries (raspberries, blackberries, & blueberries)
• Carrots
• Apples
• Garlic 
• Ginger
• Pears
• Kiwis
• Onion
• Shiitake Mushrooms
• Sesame Seeds
• Sweet Potatoes