Receding or swollen gums

Overview

Gingivitis is early gum disease and is reversible. Periodontitis damages bone and can loosen teeth.

Gum disease is linked to diabetes and heart disease.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Bleeding or swollen gums

Less common

• Receding gums
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth

Look up a symptom: Bleeding, red, or swollen gums

When to get medical care

Causes

Plaque.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Smoking
• Diabetes

Diagnosis

A dentist examines.

Treatment

Clean daily.

Self-care

• Brush twice a day
• Floss daily
• Don't smoke

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Brush twice, floss daily
• Dental cleanings

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your dentist.

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go back to school or work the same day or the next day.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People with diabetes: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Preventable.

Early gum disease clears with good care.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Do I need a deep cleaning?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Receding or swollen gums