Fistulas that form on the gums can be very painful and make simple things like eating, drinking and talking difficult. They can develop without sending any warning signs and are often stubborn, but there are ways to get rid of them and then treat the area to avoid recurrence.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: with Professional Solutions
Step 1. Have it surgically removed
If you have a chronic fistula or one that is aesthetically embarrassing, you can opt for this solution; the procedure greatly minimizes the risk of relapse. You need to consult an oral health expert, such as a periodontist, to see what they recommend.
Your dentist or gum specialist may recommend that you simply drain the fistula rather than remove it, depending on where it is located and the complexity of the removal. in this case, he may prescribe antibiotics to be taken for at least five days after the drainage
Step 2. Learn about periodontal therapies
Many fistulas are caused by gum disease or other types of oral disorders that lead to abscesses. If this is the case, it is important to proceed with a thorough cleaning by your dentist to remove any active bacteria inside your mouth that may be contributing to your ailment.
- If you think this procedure can help you, you need to undergo regular, constant cleaning to keep bacteria under control and keep your mouth healthy.
- Consider proceeding with gum surgery if your periodontist thinks this is the best way to avoid future infections or other gum fistulas.
Step 3. Consider devitalization
Sometimes, the fistula is the consequence of a dental abscess; in that case, it is necessary to proceed with this type of treatment to get rid of the infection and deteriorated enamel. Once the procedure is done, a crown or filling is placed to protect the tooth and mouth from further infection.
Root canal therapy can be quite expensive and requires several sessions in the dentist's office; so make sure you can bear the cost before undergoing the treatment
Part 2 of 3: with Home Remedies
Step 1. Use a saline mouthwash
This remedy reduces swelling and dries up or drains any infections present in the fistula. Fill half a glass with warm water, add a teaspoon of normal table salt and stir until dissolved; it doesn't matter if there is some left at the bottom. Use this solution like any other mouthwash, but when rinsing focus mainly on the infected area; remember not to ingest the mixture.
- Continue rinsing with salt water once or twice a day for a week. in this way, you reduce the chances of the fistula forming again. At the same time, make sure you maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
- This remedy is recommended by mouth health professionals and is clinically proven to be effective, but it is important to know that it does not replace a visit to the dentist.
Step 2. Apply essential oils
You can spread them on the diseased gum to reduce the amount of bacteria present and improve the overall health of the mucous membranes. Their combined action can reduce the fistula without the need to seek medical help; Simply add a few drops of essential oil to a glass of water and rinse thoroughly in your mouth.
- Among the most suitable for this purpose consider Roman mint or peppermint oil.
- Make sure you don't ingest the essential oil blend.
- Remember that this is a home remedy that is recommended for treating this disorder, but it has not been scientifically proven to be effective.
Step 3. Eat raw onions
This is a very effective way to treat gum fistulas. This food contains a rather high amount of sulfur, which can heat and dry out the lesion in the mouth.
- This is a less suitable home method than other solutions that have been verified by medical professionals.
- If you don't like the taste of raw onions, you can eat them with other foods, for example in a salad or sandwich, to mix the different flavors.
- However, you do not have to cook them, otherwise the sulfur content will be reduced.
Part 3 of 3: Preventing Fistulas
Step 1. Brush your teeth every day
Regular cleaning (at least twice a day) is probably the most important thing to prevent this ailment and promote oral health in general. Brushing your teeth reduces bacteria in your mouth, as well as removing plaque and food debris.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and ask your dentist for the correct technique
Step 2. Floss every day
This type of cleaning is the best way to reduce plaque and bacteria accumulated in the mouth. Since it is essential to ensure good overall oral hygiene to prevent fistulas, it is extremely important to use the floss regularly, especially if the disorder is chronic or recurrent.
Most dentists recommend using it twice a day
Step 3. Give mouthwashes with antibacterial mouthwash
Since one of the main causes of fistulas is the accumulation of bacteria, you must do everything possible to reduce the amount of harmful microorganisms; It is therefore worthwhile to incorporate rinses into your mouth hygiene routine right after flossing and before going to bed.
It doesn't matter which brand of mouthwash you choose, but make sure it says "antibacterial" and "approved by the Association of Dentists" on the label to make sure you buy a quality one
Step 4. See your dentist regularly
The best way to prevent the formation of gingival fistulas is to maintain proper and constant oral hygiene; this also foresees to undergo punctual visits to the dentist for checks and cleaning. Your doctor or dental hygienist can remove plaque that has accumulated in your mouth, can inform you if any dental problems have arisen or recommend specific treatments.
- The dentist is also able to recognize any cavities or other periodontal problems much easier than you could, thus helping you to detect symptoms or causes of fistulas early.
- If possible, you should see your dentist twice a year (every six months).
Advice
- Some brands of oral care products offer antiseptic gels that act as anesthetics for some time; ask your pharmacist if they can sell you any such items that will provide you with better localized relief than oral pain relievers.
- To achieve a double soothing effect, you can take ibuprofen or paracetamol at the same time.
Warnings
- If you have had gum fistulas before or continue to have them, it means that there is some underlying dental problem and you should see your dentist as soon as possible.
- Do not ingest the saline solution you use for rinsing, otherwise you may feel nauseous or vomit.
- It is always best to consult a specialist before attempting to treat an infection of this type on your own.
- Follow the dosage indicated on the leaflet to know how often to take ibuprofen or paracetamol.
