There are many variations of gum infection, and the treatment of the gums is a specialty known as periodontics.

Usually, this infection is not painful. Gum disease progresses gradually over many years without any symptoms until the teeth begin to get loose. Then it is often too late to treat and tooth extraction is required. While aging is definitely a factor in this disease, it can be prevented by keeping your teeth professionally cleaned and having your dentist carefully monitor the condition of your gums. If the signs of infection or disease are noticed early, the treatment is relatively simple and consists in a series of deep cleaning appointments to remove the irritants, including hardened tartar, that accumulate on your tooth under the gumline.

You may have an acute gum infection known as Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis. This is caused by a combination of poor oral hygiene, poor diet, and stress. It can cause the gums to swell and become painful, and portions can turn blue or gray. It is treated with antibiotics, and then the causes are addressed.

Read more about antibiotics for tooth infection.