Ear, nose and throat
Medicines for Gum disease
Inflammation of the gums caused by plaque, ranging from reversible gingivitis to periodontitis that damages the tooth's support and can cause tooth loss — largely preventable.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Gum disease?
Gum (periodontal) disease is inflammation of the gums caused by a build-up of dental plaque. Its early, reversible stage is gingivitis, where the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily (for example when brushing).
- How it is treated: The foundation of treatment and prevention is good daily oral hygiene — thorough brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth — to remove plaque, together with regular professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist to remove hardened deposits (tartar).
- Self-care: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between the teeth every day, have regular dental and hygienist visits, stop smoking, and keep diabetes well controlled — all of which prevent and treat gum disease.
- When to seek help: See a dentist about gums that bleed, are red or swollen, receding gums, loose teeth, or persistent bad breath, and attend regular check-ups.
What it is
Gum (periodontal) disease is inflammation of the gums caused by a build-up of dental plaque. Its early, reversible stage is gingivitis, where the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily (for example when brushing). If plaque is not removed, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation spreads to the tissues and bone that support the teeth, forming pockets, causing gums to recede, and eventually loosening teeth — a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Other signs include persistent bad breath and a bad taste. Risk is increased by poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes and some other factors. It is common but largely preventable, and early gum disease can be reversed.
How it is treated
The foundation of treatment and prevention is good daily oral hygiene — thorough brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth — to remove plaque, together with regular professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist to remove hardened deposits (tartar). Gingivitis usually reverses with these measures. Periodontitis needs more intensive professional cleaning below the gumline and ongoing maintenance, and sometimes further treatment. Stopping smoking and controlling diabetes significantly help. Treating gum disease not only protects the teeth but is also good for general health, given links between gum disease and conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Gum disease
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between the teeth every day, have regular dental and hygienist visits, stop smoking, and keep diabetes well controlled — all of which prevent and treat gum disease.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a dentist about gums that bleed, are red or swollen, receding gums, loose teeth, or persistent bad breath, and attend regular check-ups. Early gum disease is reversible, so acting promptly protects your teeth.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Gum disease: frequently asked questions
Is bleeding when brushing normal?
No — bleeding gums are usually the first sign of gum disease (gingivitis). It is often reversible with better brushing and cleaning between the teeth, and a dental check-up is worthwhile.
Can gum disease cause tooth loss?
Yes. If early gum disease progresses to periodontitis, it damages the support around the teeth and is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults — which is why prevention and early treatment matter.
Keep reading
Related articles
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Gum disease
- NICE — Oral health guidance
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