Pericoronitis or operculitis is a condition that affects the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth. It occurs when the gum tissue becomes inflamed and infected. This can happen if food or bacteria get trapped in the area around the wisdom teeth. According to a research conducted by Webmd.com, operculitis is a common problem, affecting up to 38% of people who have wisdom teeth. The condition is more common in young adults, but it can occur at any age. The disease is characterized by pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth. If left untreated, operculitis can lead to serious complications, such as bone loss and nerve damage. Treatment for this condition typically involves antibiotics and pain relievers. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the wisdom teeth. However, there are several home remedies that can help to relieve the symptoms of operculitis and speed up healing. Hereby are six home remedies for managing operculitis.
Rinse with warm salt water
Salt water has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it an ideal rinse for operculitis. To use this remedy, mix together:
-One teaspoon of salt
-One cup of warm water
Use this mixture to rinse your mouth for 30 seconds to one minute, and then spit it out. Repeat this process several times a day until the inflammation and pain have subsided. You can also use a saltwater rinse after you brush and floss your teeth to help keep the area clean. Just be sure to avoid swallowing the salt water, as it can be dehydrating.
Apply a warm compress
Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help reduce Pericoronitis. The heat from the compress will increase blood flow to the area, which can speed up healing. You can make a warm compress by soaking a clean cloth in hot water and wringing it out. Healthline.com recommends that you apply it to the affected area for about 15 minutes at a time. You can also try adding a few drops of essential oil to the water before soaking the cloth. This will help further reduce inflammation and pain. Some good essential oils to try include lavender, chamomile, or tea tree oil. Repeat this several times per day until you start to feel better.
Take painkillers
Painkillers work by reducing the inflammation and pain associated with operculitis. They can also help to reduce the swelling of the gum tissue. Painkillers are available over-the-counter or can be prescribed by a doctor. When using painkillers to treat the condition, it is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Too much medication can cause side effects such as stomach upset and drowsiness. If you experience any side effects from taking painkillers, stop taking them and speak to your doctor.
Avoid hard or crunchy foods
It is important to avoid hard or crunchy foods when you have operculitis. This is because these types of foods can irritate the gum tissue and cause further inflammation. Some examples of hard or crunchy foods that Medical News Today (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com) advises you to avoid when you have this condition include: nuts, seeds, popcorn, chips, and hard candy. While it may be tempting to reach for these types of snacks, it is best to avoid them if you want to ease your operculitis symptoms.
There are several benefits to avoiding hard or crunchy foods when you have this condition. First, it can help reduce the amount of inflammation in the area. Second, it can help prevent further irritation of the gum tissue. Third, it can help you avoid pain and discomfort. Fourth, it can help you heal more quickly. Fifth, it can help prevent the spread of infection. Finally, it can help you avoid complications from operculitis.
Brush and floss carefully
Brushing and flossing carefully is also a home remedy for operculitis that can provide relief from the symptoms of this condition. This home remedy can be used to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Brushing and flossing also help to prevent the build-up of tartar, which can cause further irritation of the gums. It is important to brush gently when using this home remedy, as vigorous brushing can aggravate the condition. When brushing, use circular motions and avoid scrubbing back and forth. Be sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth, including the back molars where operculitis often occurs. After brushing, rinse your mouth with a salt water solution to help remove any remaining plaque and bacteria.
Flossing is another important part of this home remedy. Be sure to floss gently, using a back-and-forth motion. Avoid snapping the floss into place, as this can irritate the gums. When you have finished flossing, you can also rinse your mouth with a salt water solution to remove any remaining plaque and bacteria.
Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash
Rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash is also a home remedy for operculitis conditions. The antiseptic mouthwash will help to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection. You should rinse your mouth with the mouthwash for at least 30 seconds. You can do this several times a day until the symptoms have resolved. Make sure that you follow the directions on the bottle of mouthwash to ensure that you are using it correctly. If you are using an over-the-counter antiseptic mouthwash, swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds and then spit it out. You can do this several times a day. If you are using a prescription mouthwash, follow the directions that your dentist or doctor has given you. You may need to rinse your mouth for longer than 30 seconds or use the mouthwash more often than over-the-counter products.