Red and inflamed gums

[have 2 kids]

I posted this on the dental forum this am but haven't received any feedback, hoping someone here can help.
Recently my gums have been bleeding when I brush/floss.
This am they are red and inflamed.  I've done some research and know this is probably gingivitis.  I have no insurance and am having trouble finding a dentist in our area that will treat me while making payments.  Is there anyway I can treat this myself?

[anxiousmomtobe?]

Brushing, flossing and good mouth wash should help, but you really need to see a dentist.  Maybe there is a university in your area that has a dentistry school.

[tmv]

Hi there,
   I totally feel for you as my family went without insurance for 1 1/2 years. We couldn't afford the $900/mo premiums and made too much money to qualify for any assistance here in the U.S. Caught in the middle.
   What you have does sound like gingivitis, however a dentist should confirm it as it looks the same as periodontitis and that can cause tooth loss.  You need to have a dental exam/cleaning. The longer you wait for treatment, the pricier it may become.  Most likely it is just plaque below the surface of the gum. Gingivitis can be prevented, but your case is past that stage.  
   Here is an informative website for you:  www.gaba.com/dental_profession/gingivitis.html  

Best wishes to you,
tmv

[have 2 kids]

Thank you both for your responses.   I'm trying to convince the dentist to let me pay for each extensive cleaning ($65) each as I receive them instead of one lump sum of $260.00.   I spoke to my md and he thinks it may have been caused by all the antibiotics I take for respiratory problems.  

[tmv]

Ouch, being without insurance is such a pain! Did you know that the dentist doesn't collect that much money from insurance companies.  They negotiate contracts for several years, the dentist accepts it and then they (insurance co.)pays a lesser charge. So unfair! It's like that with hospital bills, too. My aunt actually negotiated with her hospital bill and had to be heard in front of a board from the hospital and they let her pay what the average insurance co pays. She saved at least 50%!!! Talk to them, who knows. Maybe they'll give you a break. Also, my son's orthopedic dr(yep, broke two wrists without insurance) gave us a 20% discount for paying cash for the total.  Good luck, tmv