What Is a Gum Infection?
Gum infections occur when harmful bacteria penetrate the gum tissue, leading to inflammation, pain, swelling, and, if left untreated, destruction of the bone and structures that support the teeth. Infections can range from localized gum abscesses to widespread periodontal disease. Regardless of severity, prompt and effective treatment is essential to prevent the infection from spreading and causing permanent damage.
Gum Infection Treatment: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | 1 urgent visit, plus follow-up |
| Time needed | 30 to 60 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
| Recovery time | Relief within 1 to 2 days |
| Follow-up | Treatment of the underlying gum disease |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Signs of a Gum Infection
A gum infection can come on quickly, even when gum disease has been building silently for years. Swelling, pain and pus mean bacteria are trapped and need to be removed.
- A swollen, shiny or tender area on the gum
- Pus or a pimple on the gum
- A bad taste or smell
- A tooth that feels raised or loose
- Pain when chewing, sometimes with fever or swollen glands
Gum Infection Treatment at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, gum infections are treated by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein, a board-certified periodontist who specializes in diagnosing and managing infections of the periodontal tissues. Dr. Geoffrey begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the source, extent, and severity of the infection. Treatment may include drainage of an abscess, thorough debridement of the infected area, antimicrobial therapy, and, in more advanced cases, surgical intervention to eliminate deep-seated infection and promote healing.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Exam and X-ray. We locate the source and check for bone loss.
- Drainage. The infection is drained and the pocket is cleaned under local anesthesia.
- Irrigation. The area is flushed with an antibacterial solution.
- Medication. Antibiotics are prescribed when the infection is spreading or you are unwell.
- Follow-up. The underlying gum disease is assessed and treated once the area has settled.
Types of gum infection
| Type | Typical signs | Usual treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Gingivitis | Red gums that bleed | Professional cleaning and better home care |
| Periodontal abscess | Localized swelling, pus, pain | Drainage and deep cleaning |
| Pericoronitis | Sore gum over a wisdom tooth | Cleaning, irrigation, sometimes extraction |
| Necrotizing gum disease | Severe pain, ulcers, bad odor | Urgent cleaning and medication |
A gum abscess that drains and stops hurting has not healed. The cause is still there until it is treated.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your visit
The first 24 hours
- Rinse gently with warm salt water several times a day
- Take medication exactly as prescribed
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on that side
The following days and weeks
- Finish any antibiotic course
- Attend the follow-up visit
- Start the gum treatment recommended to prevent a repeat
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- Swelling spreads to your face or neck
- You have a fever or feel unwell
- You have difficulty swallowing or breathing; go to an emergency room
Treating the Underlying Cause
In many cases, gum infections are a manifestation of underlying periodontal disease that has been progressing without symptoms. Once the acute infection is resolved, Dr. Geoffrey develops a long-term treatment plan that may include scaling and root planing to address the disease at its source and periodontal maintenance to prevent recurrence. For patients whose infection involves significant tissue destruction, regenerative procedures such as bone grafting may be necessary to restore what has been lost.
Cost and Insurance
The fee for periodontal treatment depends on how much of the mouth is affected and on whether surgery or grafting is needed. You receive a written estimate after your gum evaluation.
What affects the cost
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical
- Graft materials and membranes, where used
- Sedation, if you choose it
Many dental plans contribute to gum disease treatment and maintenance. Benefits are often set per quarter of the mouth. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
