My gums are red and inflamed

The dentist distinguishes gingivitis from periodontitis by checking bleeding, pocket depths, attachment, tooth mobility, recession, and bone levels on radiographs when needed. Dry mouth, smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes, and some medicines can alter gum inflammation. Redness alone cannot identify the cause.

Brush twice daily with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste, clean between the teeth with floss or interdental brushes, and gently clean the tongue. Do not stop cleaning because mild bleeding often reflects inflamed tissue that needs effective plaque removal. A professional cleaning may remove calculus, which a toothbrush cannot remove. Treatment is tailored if there is periodontal disease, an abscess, or a medicine-related change.

Arrange dental care for persistent redness, bleeding, bad breath, recession, pus, loose teeth, or pain. Facial swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or rapidly spreading swelling requires urgent care. A new gum change after starting a medicine or during pregnancy should be discussed with the dentist and relevant clinician.

Ask whether the inflammation is gingivitis, periodontitis, an abscess, or another condition. Ask how to clean the specific spaces between your teeth and whether calculus removal is needed. Ask which medical or medicine factors may contribute and how progress will be checked.