Symptoms, explained
Bleeding gums: what they’re trying to tell you
Bleeding gums are worth checking even when they do not hurt. An assessment helps distinguish early inflammation from damage that needs more involved care. You do not need to know the stage before you call.
This page can’t diagnose you. Similar symptoms can have different causes. A dentist uses your history, an examination and any appropriate tests to explain what is happening and what care you need.
Toothache right now? Call reception to check the next available appointment.
Call nowGo to an emergency department NOW — don’t wait for us — if you have: swelling under the tongue or into the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, an eye swelling shut, or rapidly spreading facial swelling with fever. These are medical emergencies first and dental problems second.
Blood when you brush, with little or no pain
Plaque-related inflammation is one possible cause. The amount of bleeding and absence of pain cannot show whether the supporting bone is healthy; the dentist checks your gums and may recommend X-rays.
Continue gentle brushing and cleaning between teeth unless your dentist advises otherwise. Tell us about medicines and other bleeding symptoms.
What you should do
Contact reception to arrange an assessment and describe your symptoms. Ask how soon you should be seen; new swelling, severe pain or an injury needs urgent advice.
Bad breath, receding gums or teeth that move
These changes can occur with gum disease, but examination is needed to identify the cause and extent. Treatment may include professional cleaning, care around the roots and an individual home-care plan.
Advanced disease may need ongoing treatment or referral. The aim is to control it and reduce further damage; some teeth cannot be saved. Review intervals depend on your findings and response.
What you should do
Contact reception for urgent dental assessment. If we are closed or cannot see you promptly, contact another available dentist. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply if symptoms are worsening.
A painful swelling beside a tooth
A swelling may be an abscess or another problem. A dentist checks where it starts and whether drainage or treatment of a tooth or gum is needed. Antibiotics are used when indicated and do not replace treatment of the source.
What you should do
Contact reception for urgent dental assessment. If we are closed or cannot see you promptly, contact another available dentist. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply if symptoms are worsening.
Very painful gums, ulcers or feeling unwell
Severe pain, unusual patches, fever or difficulty eating need prompt assessment. Do not assume this is ordinary gingivitis or try to treat it with leftover antibiotics.
What you should do
Contact reception for urgent dental assessment. If we are closed or cannot see you promptly, contact another available dentist. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply if symptoms are worsening.
What it costs
We quote before we treat. Ask reception about consultation fees and your medical aid. Cover depends on your scheme, plan and available benefits; co-payments may apply. Confirm benefits and any required authorisation before treatment.
On a medical aid? Understand medical aid and treatment quotes — then check your plan’s benefits and any authorisation with your scheme. A benefit check is not a guarantee of payment.
Related dental guides
Sources for this guide
General patient information supports this guide. Your dentist assesses your own symptoms, treatment and aftercare; overseas service numbers and payment rules do not apply here.
Not sure which pattern is yours?
Tell reception what you’re feeling and ask for an appointment. Reception confirms availability and your date and time. After-hours messages are reviewed when the practice reopens; urgent symptoms should not wait for a reply.