Gingivitis is one of the most common dental problems. It is treated via diligent oral hygiene and with help from the dentist. There are many products you can use to treat gingivitis, but sticking with natural ones may just be the most effective and safest way to do so.

You see, gingivitis is caused simply by the bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria in the mouth are naturally occurring, but it must be kept in check so that it doesn’t run rampant. When bacteria are not removed regularly, it forms into plaque on the teeth. It is this plaque that leads to gingivitis. So, the key to keeping gingivitis at bay is to remove the bacteria in the mouth each and every day.

Bacteria are removed by brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash. Brushing removes bacteria and newly formed plaque from the surface of the teeth, and flossing removes particles and plaque from between the teeth. Rinsing with a mouthwash helps kills germs as well, and gets below the gum line where floss and brushing cannot reach. These “at home” efforts combined with regular professional cleanings to remove hardened plaque are the best ways to prevent and treat gingivitis.

Most people turn to commercial oral hygiene products because they are readily available and because they’ve been accustomed to using them. But, commercial oral care products contain additives and artificial ingredients that are not necessary and can even be potentially harmful.

Commercial toothpaste, for example, contains sodium laurel sulfate, which is basically detergent. This detergent makes the toothpaste foam, but provides no benefit in cleaning the teeth. Because it is detergent, sodium laurel sulfate is an allergen to many people. It has also been shown to increase the risk for canker sores in people who are prone to them. Commercial mouthwash often contains alcohol, which is not necessary for killing germs and can be harmful, especially for children.

All of these commercial additives are so unnecessary, because one of the best products for killing bacteria in the mouth is, quite simply, pure and natural mint. Mint is one of the most powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal agents you can find. Oil of mint is really all you need to kill the bacteria in your mouth, and you can find natural oral care products that have a high concentration of mint with no artificial ingredients or additives. So, give these products a try, and treat your gingivitis the natural way.