Natural Mouthwashes For Periodontal Disease: DIY Recipes That Work

Have you ever noticed your gums feeling tender, bleeding when you brush, or a lingering bad breath that just won’t go away? These are often early signs of periodontal disease, a condition that, if left untreated, can lead to serious dental problems. To combat such an issue it is important to keep your dental health in check and one such way is using natural mouthwashes. They can soothe irritation, fight bacteria, and promote healing, all while being kind to your mouth and the environment. In this article, we list easy DIY recipes for mouthwashes that not only work but also fit seamlessly into your daily routine.

According to the Internal Journal of Oral Health Dentistry (IJOHD), periodontal diseases are inflammatory conditions that damage the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, including the periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. This can eventually lead to tooth loss. According to the WHO, about 10–15% of the global population suffers from severe periodontal issues.

Natural mouthwashes use ingredients with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties that can help promote oral health without harmful side effects. These homemade solutions are a great alternative, offering a gentler approach to gum care.

Key Ingredients for Natural Mouthwashes

• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil, renowned for its powerful antibacterial properties, combats harmful bacteria and reduces inflammation, making it effective in addressing periodontal disease.
• Coconut Oil: This oil contains lauric acid, which has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used in oil pulling, a traditional method for improving oral health.
• Aloe Vera: With its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera helps reduce inflammation and provides relief for irritated gums.
• Peppermint Oil: In addition to freshening breath, peppermint oil has antibacterial properties that can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar.
• Salt: Salt is a natural disinfectant that can help cleanse the mouth and reduce swelling in inflamed gums.
• Clove Oil: Known for its analgesic and antimicrobial properties, clove oil can alleviate pain and fight bacteria in the mouth.

According to a 2023 study, essential oils are commonly used in mouthwashes for their ability to reduce gum inflammation. They contain complex natural compounds, such as terpenes, terpenoids, and both aromatic and aliphatic components, which also exhibit antioxidant properties.

DIY Natural Mouthwash Recipes for Periodontal Disease

1. Tea Tree Oil and Peppermint Mouthwash

This mouthwash combines the antibacterial power of tea tree oil with the refreshing properties of peppermint, making it perfect for combating periodontal disease.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of water
• 2-3 drops of tea tree oil
• 3-4 drops of peppermint oil

Instructions

1. Boil the water and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Add the tea tree and peppermint oils to the water and stir well.
3. Use this mouthwash after brushing your teeth, swishing it around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute before spitting it out.
4. Tea tree oil helps fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, while peppermint oil leaves your mouth feeling fresh.

2. Coconut Oil and Salt Mouthwash

This mouthwash is simple yet effective. Coconut oil, with its antimicrobial properties, can fight off harmful bacteria, while salt works as a natural antiseptic to clean the gums.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of warm water
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

Instructions

1. Warm the water until it is comfortable to the touch.
2. Add the coconut oil and salt to the water and stir until fully dissolved.
3. Swish the mixture in your mouth for 1-2 minutes, making sure it covers all areas of your mouth and gums.
4. Spit it out and rinse it with water.
5. Coconut oil helps reduce bacteria and inflammation, while the salt promotes healing and prevents infection.

3. Aloe Vera and Clove Oil Mouthwash

Aloe vera is known for its healing properties, while clove oil is a powerful antimicrobial agent. This combination makes for an excellent mouthwash for soothing inflamed gums and preventing further infection.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of aloe vera juice
• 3-4 drops of clove oil
• 1/2 cup of water

Instructions

1. Take a bowl and add aloe vera juice and water to it.
2. Add the clove oil and stir to combine.
3. Swish the mouthwash in your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute before spitting it out.
4. This mouthwash will help soothe irritated gums, reduce pain, and fight the bacteria causing periodontal disease.

4. Green Tea and Mint Mouthwash

Green tea is packed with antioxidants that can help combat bacteria and reduce inflammation. When paired with mint, it provides a refreshing and antibacterial mouthwash option. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup of brewed green tea (cooled)
• 5-6 fresh mint leaves or a few drops of peppermint oil

Instructions

1. Brew the green tea and allow it to cool to room temperature.
2. Add fresh mint leaves or peppermint oil to the tea.
3. Swish the mixture in your mouth for 1-2 minutes, focusing on your gums and teeth.

[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]