Types of Gum Infections
Gum infections are caused by bacteria that accumulate in plaque and tartar along and below the gum line. The type of infection determines the urgency and treatment approach.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the earliest and mildest form of gum infection. It causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss. Gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and consistent home care. However, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more advanced gum infection that damages the bone and connective tissue supporting the teeth. Bacteria spread below the gum line and create pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets trap more bacteria, making the infection worse over time. Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and requires professional treatment from a dentist or periodontist.
Periodontal Abscess
A periodontal abscess is a localized collection of pus in the gum tissue, usually in an existing periodontal pocket. It causes sudden, intense pain, swelling, and sometimes fever. A periodontal abscess needs prompt professional treatment, typically drainage and antibiotics. If you have facial swelling along with fever, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing, go to the emergency room.
Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
This is a severe, painful form of gum infection where the gum tissue begins to die. Symptoms include severe gum pain, bleeding, a foul taste, and gray or black tissue at the gum line. Necrotizing periodontal disease is more common in people with weakened immune systems, including those with uncontrolled diabetes or HIV. It requires immediate professional care.
Symptoms of a Gum Infection
Gum infections can develop gradually with mild symptoms or appear suddenly with severe pain. Recognizing the signs early leads to simpler, less costly treatment.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing, flossing, or eating
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Pus or discharge between the teeth and gums
- Gums that are pulling away from the teeth (recession)
- Loose teeth or changes in how teeth fit together when you bite
- Pain when chewing
- A swollen, painful bump on the gum (possible abscess)
What Causes Gum Infections
Gum infections are caused by bacteria that live in dental plaque. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a dental professional. Several factors increase the risk of developing a gum infection.
- Poor oral hygiene (inconsistent brushing and flossing)
- Smoking or tobacco use (reduces blood flow to the gums and impairs healing)
- Diabetes, especially when blood sugar is not well controlled
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
- Medications that cause dry mouth, reducing the protective effect of saliva
- A weakened immune system from illness or medication
- Genetic predisposition to gum disease
- Crowded or misaligned teeth that are difficult to clean
Professional Gum Infection Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on the type and severity of the gum infection. Treatment aims to eliminate the bacteria, reduce pocket depth, and restore healthy gum tissue.
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
Scaling and root planing is the standard first-line treatment for periodontitis. During this procedure, the dentist or periodontist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line (scaling) and smooths the root surfaces (planing) so the gum tissue can reattach. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, usually over two visits. Most patients notice significant improvement in gum health within 4 to 6 weeks.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics may be used alongside other treatments to control bacterial infection. Options include oral antibiotics (such as amoxicillin or metronidazole), locally applied antibiotic gels or chips placed directly into periodontal pockets, and antimicrobial mouth rinses (such as chlorhexidine). Antibiotics alone do not cure gum disease. They work best when combined with professional cleaning to physically remove the bacterial deposits.
Abscess Drainage
A periodontal abscess needs to be drained to relieve pressure and remove the infected material. The periodontist makes a small incision in the gum, drains the pus, and thoroughly cleans the area. Antibiotics are typically prescribed afterward to prevent the infection from returning. The underlying cause of the abscess, usually a deep periodontal pocket, will also need treatment.
Periodontal Surgery
When scaling and root planing cannot fully resolve the infection, surgery may be needed. Flap surgery (pocket reduction surgery) involves lifting the gum tissue, cleaning the deep pockets, and repositioning the tissue to reduce pocket depth. Bone grafting may be added if the infection has caused significant bone loss. Guided tissue regeneration uses a special membrane to encourage new bone and tissue growth.
Periodontal surgery is performed by a periodontist, typically under local anesthesia or sedation. Recovery takes 1 to 2 weeks for most procedures, and follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing.
Home Care for Gum Infections
Home care supports professional treatment but does not replace it. A gum infection will not heal with home remedies alone. These steps can help manage symptoms and support recovery.
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, angling the bristles toward the gum line.
- Floss daily to remove bacteria from between teeth where your brush cannot reach.
- Rinse with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) two to three times a day to reduce bacteria and soothe inflamed tissue.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your dentist or periodontist.
- Avoid smoking, which slows healing and worsens gum disease.
- Eat a balanced diet and manage blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
Gum Infection Treatment Costs
The cost of gum infection treatment varies based on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment needed. Costs vary by location, provider, and case complexity.
A standard dental cleaning for gingivitis costs $100 to $200. Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) ranges from $200 to $400 per quadrant, with most patients needing two to four quadrants treated. Abscess drainage costs $150 to $500. Periodontal surgery ranges from $500 to $3,000 per area, depending on the procedure.
Most dental insurance plans cover diagnostic exams and scaling and root planing. Surgical procedures may be partially covered under major services. Ask your dental office about your specific plan and available financing options.
When to See a Periodontist vs. Going to the ER
A general dentist can treat gingivitis and mild gum infections with professional cleaning. See a periodontist when gum disease is moderate to severe, when you have deep periodontal pockets (typically 5 mm or more), when non-surgical treatment has not resolved the infection, or when you need gum surgery or bone grafting.
Go to the emergency room if a gum infection is accompanied by a high fever, facial swelling that is spreading, difficulty breathing, or difficulty swallowing. These are signs that the infection may be spreading beyond the mouth and requires immediate medical attention.
Find a Periodontist Near You
If you have symptoms of a gum infection, search the My Specialty Dentist directory for a verified periodontist in your area. Early treatment prevents bone loss and tooth loss.
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