Q: My gums are swollen, tender, and are causing me a great deal of pain. Is there anything I can do to reduce the pain until Monday? There is a red and white bump on the lower-left side of my gums facing my cheek.
A: Is it possible to get in to a dentist or periodontist as an emergency patient before Monday? If this is a true infection, it can spread and cause problems that can lead to serious health issues. Start with warm salt rinses immediately and do it several times a day. (Do you have high blood pressure? If so…watch your salt intake.) I strongly suggest not waiting through the weekend.
