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Dentist Disaster

Decay & gums

Gum disease

Routine4 treatment options

Bleeding, swollen gums are the classic early sign. Gum disease is common and preventable - here is how it progresses and how it is treated.

How urgent is it? Routine

See a dentist if your gums bleed, are swollen or you have bad breath. The NHS says to ask for an urgent appointment if you also have very sore and swollen gums, teeth becoming loose or falling out, ulcers or red patches, or a lump in your mouth or on your lip.

What it is

Gum disease is inflammation of the gums caused by a build-up of plaque, the sticky layer of bacteria that forms on teeth every day. The NHS describes it as very common, and it is often painless at first, so many people do not realise they have it.

The early stage, gingivitis, causes red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush. It is reversible with good daily cleaning. If it is left untreated it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone and tissues that hold the teeth in place. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, but it can be controlled and stopped with treatment.

Some people are at higher risk, including smokers, people with diabetes, and those with a family history of losing teeth to gum disease. Hormonal changes such as pregnancy can also play a part.

Signs and causes

Common signs

  • Gums that bleed when you brush, floss or eat hard foods
  • Red, swollen or sore gums
  • Bad breath or an unpleasant taste
  • Gums shrinking back so teeth look longer
  • Loose teeth, or teeth that have moved or developed gaps
  • Gum abscesses (pus under the gum)

Usual causes

  • Plaque that is not removed by brushing and cleaning between the teeth
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • A family history of gum disease
  • Hormonal changes, including pregnancy

Ways to fix it

The options a dentist may discuss with you, and when each one tends to be used. Which one suits you depends on an examination.

  1. Daily oral hygiene

    Always the foundation - thorough brushing twice a day and daily cleaning between teeth can reverse gingivitis.

    Available on the NHSHome care

  2. Scale and polish

    Removing hardened plaque (tartar) above the gumline, usually by a hygienist or therapist.

    Sometimes on the NHSPreventive

  3. Gum disease treatment

    Periodontitis needing deep cleaning below the gums, extra appointments or referral to a specialist.

    Available on the NHSPreventive

  4. Tooth extraction

    Teeth that have lost too much support to be saved.

    Available on the NHSSurgical

What you can do now

  • Keep brushing even if your gums bleed - bleeding usually improves as cleaning improves
  • Clean between your teeth every day with interdental brushes or floss
  • Do not use mouthwash straight after brushing, as it washes away the fluoride from your toothpaste

Preventing it

  • Brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, and spit rather than rinse
  • Clean between your teeth every day
  • Stop smoking
  • Have regular check-ups - especially if you are pregnant or have diabetes

Common questions

Should I stop brushing if my gums bleed?

No. Bleeding is usually a sign that plaque needs removing. Keep brushing gently and cleaning between your teeth, and see your dental team if it continues.

Can gum disease be cured?

Gingivitis can be reversed. Periodontitis cannot be reversed, but with good home care and professional treatment it can be controlled and further damage stopped.

Is dental care free in pregnancy?

Yes, in England NHS check-ups and treatment are free while you are pregnant and for 12 months after you give birth. Ask your midwife or GP about the maternity exemption certificate.

How much does scaling cost on the NHS?

When a dentist says scaling is clinically needed it is usually included in Band 1 (£27.90 from April 2026), though extensive treatment for complex gum problems may be charged at Band 2. If it is not clinically necessary you would pay privately.

Products that may help at home

These support good daily care; they don’t replace treatment from a dentist. Some links may be affiliate links.

Corsodyl Original toothpaste

An everyday toothpaste aimed at people with bleeding gums. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease, so it's worth mentioning…

Features & who it suits

Sources we used

Checked September 2026. Guidance changes, so always follow the advice of your own dental team. About our sources.