Hi there,

I've never had problems with my teeth or gums, but then again I haven't been to a dentist for past 8 years or so! :( I've always brushed and flossed twice daily, though, etc etc.
Last week my teeth started to ache a bit - all of them. Yesterday this pain spread to my gums and I noticed that they started to look a bit whiter than usual..especially where they meet the teeth, at the edge. However, the pain is SO bad now, it's unbelieveable!!! I've never been in so much pain in my life, and no painkillers help!!
I'm definitely going to have to see a specialist about this, but I'm so scared as to what it could be?? Peridontitis, etc?? I live in the UK, so I don't know whether the first step would be to go to a GP or register with a dentist?? None of my friends seem to know!! I've also heard that gum treatment isn't available on the NHS and you need to be referred to a private peridontist?!
Does anyone know what could be causing this sudden pain, or how I could alleviate it??? The pain is driving me insane and painkillers aren't helping a bit!!!
Thanks a lot.