Infections in the gums, alveolar bone, and other structures around the teeth can lead to periodontal disease if left unchecked. Once periodontal disease develops, a host of health issues can arise, including heart disease and diabetes. So it's best to prevent the onset of mouth infections in the first place by taking good care of your teeth at home and regularly seeing a dentist. You can also help fight off periodontal disease with the use of essential oils – here are a few recipes to try at home:

Vanilla Cinnamon Toothpaste

Cinnamon essential oil is extremely effective at combating Streptococcus mutans, which is bacteria that frequently causes gum infections which can lead to periodontal disease. Using this cinnamon vanilla toothpaste on a regular basis will help keep your breath fresh and your teeth and gums healthy, so you don't have to worry about fighting off infections. You'll need the following ingredients to make a batch:

• 2 tbsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide
• 20 drops cinnamon essential oil
• 10 drops vanilla essential oil or extract

Place the baking soda and water in a small plastic sealable tub and use a fork to mix the concoction together until it becomes a paste. Add the rest of the ingredients and slowly mix the paste a few times until thoroughly combined. You can stick your toothbrush directly in the paste, or use a small spoon to transfer it to your brush if you're sharing it with others in your household.

Citrus Mint Clove Mouthwash

The peppermint in this spicy mouthwash helps keep cavities at bay while the antibacterial properties in the clove oil help reduce any chances of developing gum disease. You can make a batch of citrus peppermint clove mouthwash in minutes and keep the leftovers on your bathroom counter for about a week between uses before it should be replaced with a fresh batch. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 reusable, sealable container (a mason jar would work!)
• 1 cup fresh water (filtered if possible)
• 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops clove essential oil
• 10 drops orange essential oil (for flavor)

Just put all of the ingredients in your container, seal the lid, and give it a few vigorous shakes to combine the oils. You can use it like you would commercial mouthwash, but you'll want to shake it up before each use.

These recipes are easy to make and keep on hand for convenient dental care throughout the year.  For more severe issues, seek professional periodontal disease treatment.