Gum inflammation: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see

For gum inflammation you can first see: Dentist or Periodontology. In large hospitals, the Periodontology unit also deals with this. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.

Common symptoms: gums bleeding when brushing or flossing; red, swollen, tender gums; bad breath; whitish plaque along the gum line and yellow-brown tartar. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.

The most common causes: build-up of bacterial plaque; tartar; smoking; pregnancy and hormonal changes; diabetes; some medicines. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.

Gingivitis usually goes down within 1–2 weeks with a dental clean and regular mouth care. Untreated, it can progress to periodontitis.

The most common cause is gum inflammation from bacterial plaque. Rarely, blood disorders and medicines can be the cause; see a doctor for bleeding that will not stop.

See a dentist; a Periodontology specialist sees advanced gum disease.

Mouthwashes can help but do not replace brushing, flossing and scaling.

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is there severe gum pain, grey dead tissue and fever?” “Is there spontaneous gum bleeding that will not stop, or bruising on the body?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”

See a doctor: gum bleeding has not stopped in 2 weeks; for a clean if there is tartar; gum bleeding increases in pregnancy.