Periodontal (Gum) Disease (cont.)

When to Seek Medical Care

A dentist provides major care for diseases of the teeth and gums.

A person should visit his or her dentist for the following concerns:

• Gums start to bleed.

• Gums are swollen and sore.

• Bad smelling breath or a bad taste develops in the mouth.

• Gums become very red or very pale.

• Teeth are painful.

• Teeth are loose in their sockets.

If any of the above symptoms are present, plus fever, sweats, chills, or face swelling, go to a hospital's emergency department.

Other reasons to go to an emergency department include the following:

• The tongue feels swollen or pushes up from the floor of the mouth.

• Swelling develops below the chin, especially if it is red, tender, and warm.