Possible gum infection?

[margierose]

A few years ago I had a cap put on my front tooth. It was fine after all was said and done, but within the past two months the gums above that lone tooth have been bothering. Most days I don't really think about it and it does not bother me. But today it is irritated and sore and feels like it is swollen in that spot when I run my tongue over it. I have made an appointment with the dentist but it'll be a while before I go. I was hoping there may be something I can do to prevent it from getting worse or maybe even get it to go away at least a little bit. I have been using listerine but it has not improved. Also, might it be contagious? Any suggestions before I result to the torturous ways of vicious dentistry would be much appreciated. Thanks so much.

[mammo]

I would stop the Listerine, it contains alcohol which will only irritate it further.  Use warm salt water instead, try not to brush the gum area.  I always rinse my mouth with peroxide, it can be used as an oral rinse for mouth irritations and is excellent. I truly prefer this over the warm salt water. Hope this is some help.