You should see your dentist if you have painful, swollen or bleeding gums.
If you do not currently have a dentist, use the post code search to find a dentist near you.
Your dentist will be able to confirm whether you have gum disease and provide necessary treatment.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a form of gum disease that develops if gingivitis is not treated. It affects the tissues that support teeth and hold them in place, and can lead to teeth loosening or falling out.
If you have periodontitis, you will need a thorough dental examination. Your dentist may use a periodontal probe to examine your mouth. This is a medical instrument shaped like a thin silver stick with a bend in one end.
The periodontal probe will be inserted beside your tooth, underneath the gum line. If you have healthy teeth, your gums should be attached to your teeth and the probe should not be able to slide very far below your gum line. You may have periodontitis if the probe is able to slide deeper under the gum line than normal.
In some cases, a number of X-rays may be needed to check the condition of your teeth and jaw bone.
Acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis
You will also need to see a dentist if you have the symptoms of acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG).
The dentist will be able to diagnose the condition from your symptoms. It is very important that you see a dentist as soon as possible because ANUG can cause serious complications.
Read more about the complications of gum disease.
