Gingivitis: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency care for facial or neck swelling that affects breathing or swallowing.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Ask for prompt dental assessment if you have:

   • Very painful or rapidly worsening gums
   • Gum ulcers or a grey layer over the gums
   • Pus around a tooth or gum
   • A loose adult tooth
   • Fever or feeling unwell alongside gum symptoms
   • Heavy gum bleeding that is difficult to stop

   Uncontrolled bleeding, especially with faintness or bleeding elsewhere, also needs urgent medical assessment.

   These symptoms are not typical of uncomplicated gingivitis.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine dental appointment if your gums regularly bleed, remain swollen, or stay tender despite careful cleaning.

   You should also seek dental advice for persistent bad breath, visible tartar, gum recession, or changes around braces, dentures, crowns, or implants.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Gingivitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.