Symptoms, explained
A gum boil: what that little pimple is trying to tell you
A pimple-like swelling on the gum that drains or comes back needs a dental assessment, even if it is painless. It can be associated with an infection, but the appearance alone cannot identify the source.
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.
A swelling that drains and returns
A draining tract from a tooth infection is one possibility; gum conditions and other lesions can look similar. The dentist examines the area and may use tooth tests or X-rays to locate the source.
Less pain after drainage does not show that the cause has resolved. Do not squeeze or repeatedly probe the swelling.
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.
Treatment depends on the source
A rinse or antibiotic alone may not treat the underlying cause. The dentist explains whether care of a tooth, the gums or another assessment is needed. Antibiotics are prescribed only when indicated.
- If the source is inside a suitable tooth, root canal treatment or retreatment may be discussed, with any restoration needed afterwards. (Root canal: from R3,500)
- If the tooth cannot be preserved, extraction may be an option.
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.
New pain, facial swelling or fever
These changes need urgent assessment. If swelling affects breathing or swallowing, involves the eye, or is rapidly increasing with fever, seek hospital emergency care. Do not wait for a routine appointment or a message reply.
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.
Displayed “from” prices are starting amounts for straightforward cases, not the total cost of every treatment plan. After assessment, ask for an itemised quote confirming any consultation, retreatment and final restoration needed.
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.