Aloe vera offers anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities and is packed with antioxidants. For these reasons, some people turn to aloe vera to ease inflammation linked to gum disease and other dental concerns.
Inflammation is a natural part of the immune response, but it can cause:
- pain
- swelling
- discomfort
The yellow sap that oozes from a cut aloe leaf contains compounds that can relieve pain.
Additionally, the plant provides six antiseptic agents that can hinder the growth of:
- fungi
- bacteria
- viruses
Aloe vera is also rich in potent antioxidants that neutralize free radicals responsible for cell damage. These characteristics of aloe vera may support the treatment of:
- gingivitis
- gum infections or periodontitis
- other oral irritations
Let’s examine these more closely.
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a form of gum disease where plaque builds up on the teeth. Plaque is a naturally occurring sticky film, but excessive buildup can inflame the gums, causing painful, bleeding tissue.
Typical treatment includes professional dental cleaning to remove plaque. Good daily oral hygiene also minimizes inflammation. Research indicates aloe vera may assist the healing process.
In a 2013 study, 45 people with gingivitis were split into three groups of 15.
One group rinsed with an aloe vera mouthwash twice a day for three months. The second group received scaling alone. The third group underwent scaling plus used the aloe vera mouthwash.
All three approaches decreased gingival inflammation in participants. Yet, the group that had both scaling and the aloe vera mouthwash experienced the greatest reduction in inflammation.
The results imply that aloe vera might accelerate gingivitis recovery.
Reduce inflammation & speed healing
Aloe vera may help reduce gum inflammation and promote healing when used to treat gingivitis.
2. Periodontitis disease
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. This more severe gum disease harms the bone supporting the teeth.
Symptoms resemble those of gingivitis but may also include:
- new gaps between teeth
- persistent bad breath
- loose teeth
- receding gums
Treatments vary from nonsurgical approaches like scaling and root planing to surgeries such as bone grafts.
Bacterial presence in periodontitis provokes an inflammatory reaction, producing painful, swollen gums.
A 2011 study assessing aloe vera gel in periodontal pockets found the gel could improve symptoms because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
The trial included 15 adults with periodontitis.
Researchers compared outcomes of scaling and root planing plus placement of aloe vera gel in periodontal pockets versus scaling and root planing alone.
Evaluation at one and three months showed that combining aloe vera gel with scaling and root planing produced better results than scaling and root planing by itself.
Reduce bacteria
In managing advanced gum disease like periodontitis, applying aloe vera gel may help control bacterial infection and thus reduce inflammation.
3. Other mouth irritation
Due to its reparative properties, aloe vera might protect against or improve various other oral issues.
These can include:
- canker sores
- cold sores
- lichen planus
Because it can curb bacteria in the mouth, using aloe gel may lower the risk of bacterial infections associated with dental implants.
Protect against other issues
When incorporated into routine oral care, aloe vera’s antimicrobial and protective actions can help prevent additional mouth problems such as canker sores or complications related to dental devices like implants. You can also read more about aloe vera for eyes and its benefits in other contexts.
How to use aloe vera gel for oral care?
Introducing aloe vera into your dental hygiene routine is straightforward.
Aloe vera is included in some oral care items like toothpastes and mouth rinses. Regular use of these products can help prevent or manage gum disease driven by inflammation or bacteria.
Drinking aloe vera juice is another way to add aloe to your oral care regimen.
Purchase aloe vera dental products online or at neighborhood retailers.
Drawbacks and risks
Although aloe vera has advantages, it’s not suitable for everyone. Consult a doctor first if you have diabetes. Aloe vera may lower blood glucose, which could be hazardous if you’re taking blood-sugar medications.
If you’re allergic or sensitive to aloe vera, swallowing the gel or juice might cause cramps or diarrhea.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suspect you might be pregnant, speak with a healthcare professional before using aloe vera.
More about the aloe vera plant
The therapeutic application of the aloe plant’s clear gel and yellow sap dates back millennia. Because of its wide-ranging healing qualities, it has earned the nickname “the plant of immortality.”
When applied to the skin, aloe vera can:
- soothe burns and frostbite
- help treat skin conditions such as psoriasis
When consumed, it has helped some people ease digestive complaints.
While scientific evidence for aloe vera’s oral health benefits is limited, anecdotal reports indicate it may be useful for tooth and gum care.
The takeaway
Aloe vera possesses notable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Limited studies suggest it may be a useful adjunct for treating gum disease and other oral conditions, though more long-term research is necessary to firmly establish its role in dentistry.
Although aloe vera appears promising, consult with a dentist before adding it to your dental care routine.
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