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When you eat anything, the teeth masticate the food before you swallow it. Some pieces may get lodged in the small crevices or at the base of the teeth. If these are not got rid of by brushing the teeth or gargling after meals, they keep collecting and harden to form plaques. They soften the junction of the teeth with the gum. This loosened area attracts bacteria and other micro-organisms, leading to mild, moderate or severe inflammation. This causes pain and sometimes even bleeding gums while brushing teeth. Bad breath, loose teeth, cavities in the teeth, are all associated with this problem. Sweets and carbohydrate-rich food aggravate it. Take a tablespoon of mustard oil and add a teaspoon of common salt to it. Wash your hands well. With the forefinger take a small amount of this mixture and massage the gums gently in upward, downward and circular strokes. Do this for 30 seconds and then gargle with warm water. Do this 2-3 times a day To prepare a soothing mouthwash for sore gums, boil 10-15 fresh eucalyptus leaves in a litre of water. Simmer for five minutes, then switch off heat. Cover and keep aside. Strain and add 2-3 drops of clove oil. If you do not have clove oil, add the powder of 6-7 finely ground cloves and bring the mixture to the boil again. Filter, cool and use as a mouthwash after every meal. This can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days Use a herbal tea made with henna leaves as a mouthwash.
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