There are many causes of a gum infection and that's why it is so important to see a knowledgeable dentist as soon as you realize that you have a problem. An infection is when bacteria or viruses invade and grow within a tissue. There is almost always associated inflamation. Inflamation is when the gums get swollen, red and bleed. The most common cause of gum inflamation is gingivitis. This is when the infection is limited to the gums and has not spread to the underlying bone.

          A special type of gum infection is called pericornitis. An upper wisdom tooth will sometimes chew the swollen gum tissue on top of a lower wisdom tooth. The tissues around the wisdom tooth get red and swollen and the patient often has difficulty opening the mouth. A periodontal abscess is when a ball of pus forms in the gums. There is usually underlying bone damage and aggressive periodontal treatment is needed.

          A dental abscess due to a dead tooth can cause pus formation that swells up the gum tissues. The cause of this is from a tooth problem, not a gum problem. Trench mouth, or Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis, is when a gum infection causes the surface of the gums to fall off leaving the tender underlying gum tissue exposed.

          Regardless of the cause of a gum infection , it's important to seek early help. All infections should be treated early before they get out of hand and require extensive treatment. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you need dental care and would like to find out what our Atlanta Dentist, Dr. Padolsky, can do for you, schedule a consultation by calling  404-874-7428.