Swollen gums may feel sore when eating or brushing, and local swelling can appear around a single tooth. Some causes are minor irritation, while others need urgent treatment. Emergency Dentist Kensington can assess gum swelling and help identify the source. Contact the team promptly for worsening symptoms, and mention fever, facial swelling, an unpleasant taste or difficulty opening your mouth when you call. If you are nervous about attending, let the team know when arranging your visit. You can explain what you find difficult, ask for a pause during the assessment and discuss the proposed care at your own pace. Bring any recent dental information you have, and mention allergies or changes in your medicines. The advice on this page is general; the instructions given by your treating dentist take priority.
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Understanding the problem
Plaque-related inflammation, trapped food and irritation from a restoration can affect the gum. Gum disease can cause broader swelling, while a dental abscess may create a tender local lump. Infection can arise from the gum or from inside a tooth. A damaged or poorly fitting denture may rub the tissues. Medicines and hormonal changes can also alter gum appearance, so the dentist will ask about your health history.
When to arrange an assessment
Notice whether the swelling is confined to the gum or spreading into the cheek. Tenderness, bleeding, pus or a bad taste can accompany infection. Pain in an adjacent tooth may help locate the source but cannot confirm it. Do not squeeze or puncture a swelling yourself. Rapidly spreading swelling, fever or feeling very unwell warrants urgent assessment rather than waiting for routine cleaning.
Assessment and treatment options
An examination and any indicated X-rays help determine whether the problem is periodontal, tooth-related or due to irritation. Treatment may include cleaning, removing trapped material, drainage of an abscess or adjustment of an appliance. A tooth-related infection may need root canal treatment or, when retention is not possible, extraction. Antibiotics are considered when clinically indicated, such as spreading infection, and do not replace treating the source. The dentist explains the immediate plan and any further care needed.
Your emergency appointment and fees
A private emergency appointment at Emergency Dentist Kensington costs £95 for a comprehensive emergency assessment with a dentist. The assessment helps establish the cause of your symptoms and the next appropriate step. Further treatment is charged separately, and the team will explain the proposed care and associated costs before you agree to it. Do not assume that a repair or procedure is included in the assessment fee. You can call 020 4652 9565 or use our online portal to check appointment availability.
Looking after your oral health
Daily brushing and interdental cleaning reduce plaque and food trapping. Keep regular reviews to monitor gum pockets and restorations. Report repeated swelling in the same place, as it may need more than short-term symptom management. Do not assume that a lump disappearing means the source has been treated. A personalised cleaning plan and timely care for damaged teeth support longer-term gum health.