Gum inflammation, known medically as gingivitis , is one of the most common diseases in the mouth. Almost everyone suffers from it at least once in their life – often without initially noticing it. Typical symptoms include red, swollen, or slightly bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis , which affects the entire periodontal ligament and, in the worst case, can lead to tooth loss.
The good news: In most cases, gingivitis can be successfully treated and even prevented. This article comprehensively examines which measures can help—from traditional oral hygiene and home remedies to modern approaches like probiotics . We focus particularly on the bacterium Streptococcus salivarius M18 , which has increasingly received attention in recent years due to its positive effects on oral health.
Causes of gingivitis
Gum inflammation is usually caused by bacterial plaque that accumulates on the teeth and gum line. This plaque is a biofilm composed of bacteria, saliva, and food debris. If it isn't removed regularly, the bacteria can multiply unchecked and release toxins that cause gum inflammation.
In addition to poor oral hygiene, there are other risk factors:
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Smoking , which impairs blood circulation to the gums
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Hormonal changes , such as during pregnancy or puberty
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Diabetes mellitus , which increases susceptibility to infections
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Stress that weakens the immune system
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Certain medications that inhibit saliva production
Typical symptoms
The onset of gingivitis is usually noticeable through the following signs:
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Bleeding gums when brushing or chewing
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Redness and swelling of the gums
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Bad breath or unpleasant taste in the mouth
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Sensitive gums
In the early stages, gingivitis is still reversible – that is, with timely treatment, the gums can become completely healthy again.
Classical treatment methods
The basis of any treatment is thorough oral hygiene . The goal is to reduce bacterial plaque and promote healing of the gums.
Professional teeth cleaning
At the dentist, stubborn plaque and tartar are removed that are often impossible to reach. This creates the foundation for healthy gums.
Correct cleaning technique
Gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush is important to avoid further irritating the inflamed tissue. Fluoride toothpaste supports tooth enamel and makes it harder for plaque to stick.
Dental floss and interdental brushes
Since bacteria settle particularly easily in the spaces between teeth, these should be cleaned daily.
Antibacterial mouthwashes
Chlorhexidine or essential oils can significantly reduce the number of germs in the mouth. However, strong rinses should not be used continuously to avoid side effects such as discoloration.
Home remedies for gingivitis
Many people also rely on natural measures to support healing:
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Chamomile or sage tea : antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
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Coconut oil pulling : traditional Ayurvedic procedure that is said to bind bacteria
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Aloe Vera Gel : soothes irritated gums
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Clove oil : has a slightly numbing and pain-relieving effect
Home remedies can support treatment, but they do not replace thorough dental care.
Modern approaches: The role of probiotics
In recent years, probiotics have gained increasing attention in dentistry. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in sufficient quantities, can have health benefits. They are primarily known for their role in intestinal health, but certain bacteria can also have a positive effect in the mouth.
The idea behind it: Instead of exclusively fighting bacteria, the microbial balance is restored. Probiotic bacteria can suppress pathogenic germs, strengthen the immune system, and thus prevent or alleviate inflammation.
Studies show that probiotics can help with:
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Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums)
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Periodontitis (advanced inflammation of the periodontal ligament)
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Bad breath (halitosis)
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Caries prevention
Streptococcus salivarius – a natural inhabitant of the mouth
Among the probiotic bacteria, Streptococcus salivarius is particularly interesting. This bacterium colonizes the oral cavity shortly after birth and is considered one of the first "friendly" inhabitants of the oral flora.
Certain strains, such as Streptococcus salivarius K12 and M18, have been extensively researched. While K12 is primarily known for its effectiveness against bad breath and throat infections, the M18 strain demonstrates remarkable effects on general dental health. M18 helps with bad breath, gingivitis, tooth decay, and periodontitis.
How Streptococcus salivarius M18 can help with gingivitis
The M18 strain is characterized by several properties that make it a valuable supporter for gum problems:
1. Production of bacteriocins
M18 produces natural antimicrobial substances that can inhibit pathogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans , thereby reducing plaque formation.
2. Regulation of the biofilm
The biofilm in the mouth is a complex system. M18 can influence the balance through enzymes such as dextranase and urease .
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Dextranase breaks down sticky substances that caries and inflammatory pathogens need to adhere.
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Urease slightly increases the pH in the mouth, making it difficult for acid-loving bacteria to multiply.
3. Strengthening the immune system
M18 interacts with the immune system and promotes a less aggressive inflammatory response, thus protecting the gums from excessive damage.
4. Sustainable settlement
Studies show that M18 can actually colonize the oral cavity when taken in the form of lozenges or pastilles, thus providing longer-term protection.
Scientific studies
Several clinical studies have investigated the effects of Streptococcus salivarius M18. The results are promising:
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Reduced plaque formation : Subjects who took M18 regularly had significantly less plaque and bleeding gums.
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Improved gum health : Gingivitis scores improved measurably after several weeks of use.
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Good tolerability : M18 is considered safe and has few side effects, even with long-term use.
Use of probiotics in everyday life
Streptococcus salivarius M18 is available in special probiotic preparations for oral health , usually in the form of lozenges. Regular use is important to allow the bacteria to establish a home in the mouth.
Practical tips:
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Suck tablets in the evening after brushing your teeth so that the bacteria remain in the mouth for as long as possible
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Take over several weeks for lasting effect
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Combination with good oral hygiene for optimal results
Summary: Measures against gingivitis
| measure | Effect | Special features |
|---|---|---|
| Thorough oral hygiene | Removes plaque and prevents new deposits | Basis of every treatment |
| Professional teeth cleaning | Removes stubborn tartar | Recommended 1–2 times a year |
| Antibacterial mouthwash | Reduces germs, relieves inflammation | Short-term use makes sense |
| Home remedies (e.g. chamomile, aloe vera) | Supportive, calming | Complementary, not sufficient alone |
| Probiotics (general) | Promote healthy oral flora | Modern complementary therapy |
| Streptococcus salivarius M18 | Reduces plaque, strengthens gums, regulates biofilm | Particularly effective against gingivitis |
Conclusion
Gum inflammation should never be taken lightly. It's not only unpleasant, but if left untreated, it can have serious consequences for your overall dental health. However, with consistent oral hygiene, professional support from your dentist, and, if necessary, additional measures such as home remedies, gingivitis can usually be brought under control quickly.
New approaches using probiotics are particularly exciting. The Streptococcus salivarius M18 strain, in particular, has shown promising effects in studies: It can suppress pathogenic bacteria, reduce plaque formation, and sustainably support gum health. This opens up a natural and gentle way to prevent and treat gingivitis—an ideal complement to proven dental methods.
