Periodontitis: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   These changes need assessment but are not usually medical emergencies.

   Go to emergency care if swelling makes it difficult to breathe or swallow, spreads toward your eye or neck, or is rapidly worsening.

   These signs can indicate a spreading infection requiring immediate assessment.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   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 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

   Seek urgent dental care if you develop:

   • A painful or rapidly increasing gum swelling
   • Pus around a tooth or gum
   • Facial swelling
   • Fever or feeling unwell with a dental swelling
   • A tooth that suddenly becomes very loose
   • Severe pain that is not settling
   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, look swollen, have receded or remain sore.

   Also book an assessment if you have ongoing bad breath, a new space between teeth or a tooth that feels loose.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

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