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Can Children Develop Gum Disease?

November 27, 2019

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: — adirondack @ 2:31 pm

girl holding fake teethThe biggest threat to your child’s smile is tooth decay, but that isn’t the only danger lingering in their mouth. They are also at risk for gum disease. Although it’s thought to only affect adults, children can develop the infection as well. Your children’s dentist in Plattsburgh checks their gum health at each preventive appointment, but it’s also important for you to spot the warning signs to keep their smile healthy in between routine visits. With quick detection, the infection can be stopped in its tracks to prevent long-term damage. Here’s what to look for to keep your child’s gums healthy.

Gingivitis in Children

Gum disease is a preventable infection that occurs in the gingival (gum) tissue. It’s caused by bacteria found in tartar buildup near the gum line due to poor oral hygiene habits. It causes the tissue to become red and inflamed. This creates pockets between the roots of the teeth and the gums, trapping additional bacteria.

The infection is separated into 3 categories based on its severity. The earliest stage is gingivitis, which is the most common form to affect children. Besides redness and swelling, your child may have a bit of bleeding when they brush or floss their teeth. In some cases, they may develop chronic bad breath or tooth sensitivity. Thankfully, it’s easy to treat without causing any lasting damage to their smile.

If gum disease isn’t treated quickly, it can progress to periodontitis or advanced periodontitis. During these stages, irreversible damage can occur, like bone or tooth loss.

Treating Gingivitis in Children

If gingivitis isn’t treated, the infection will continue to spread, destroying the supporting structures of the teeth as it turns into periodontitis. If the infection reaches the advanced stages, serious complications can occur, like tooth loss. Typically, it doesn’t reach this point with children.

The health of your child’s smile can be restored with non-surgical periodontal therapy. Scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, remove the buildup from the teeth and gum line. The roots of their teeth are smoothed to prevent future accumulations while also allowing the gum tissue to reattach to their teeth.

Preventing Gum Disease in Children

There are several things you can do to help reduce your child’s risk of developing gum disease in Plattsburgh, including:

  • Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that accommodates the size of your child’s mouth.
  • Clean all surfaces of their teeth for at least 2 minutes in the morning and before going to bed. Be sure to clean all the way to the gum line.
  • Around the age of 6, your child’s teeth will move closer together, and it’s time to introduce daily flossing. Often, children find flossers easier to use than standard dental floss.
  • Take them to their dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

Invest in a Healthy Smile

While you work to ensure your child’s teeth stay strong and cavity-free, don’t forget about their gum health. Contact their dentist at the first sign of a problem to keep their smile healthy.

About Dr. Gordon Davis

Dr. Gordon Davis is a trusted periodontist in the community with extensive training in many areas of specialty care, including gum disease therapy. He’s an active member of various organizations, including the American Academy of Periodontology. If you or your child have signs of gum disease, don’t wait. Contact our office today for an appointment.

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