What Can Cause Gum Disease in Children
Posted on August 30th, 2023 | Christopher Neal
As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. That means making sure their smile is healthy throughout their lifetime. Most people are concerned about cavities when it comes to their kids’ oral health. However, while children are more susceptible to tooth decay than adults, gum disease in kids can also become a problem.
Signs Your Child Has Gum Disease
Some of the most common and easily recognized signs of gum disease are visibly apparent. Knowing that, let’s examine what gum disease looks like.
Signs of gum disease in kids can include:
- Red or swollen gum tissue
- Sore gums
- Bad breath
- Gums that bleed after brushing or flossing
- Bleeding gums (without cause)
- Receding gums
- Gaps developing between teeth
- Puss or signs of infection
- A change in bite alignment
- Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
If you notice any of the above signs you should schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Once children encounter early-stage gum disease, also called gingivitis or periodontal disease, it can worsen if left untreated.
Treating Gingivitis in Children
The best way to treat gum disease in kids is to schedule regular dental appointments and teeth cleanings. It’s also important to maintain a proper at-home oral care routine.
Gum disease is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth and gum tissue. Dental plaque is sticky, which can make it difficult to remove. If plaque is left on teeth for too long, it can harden and turn into dental tartar. Regular teeth cleanings and proper dental care prevent plaque and tartar from accumulating.
If you make sure your child’s oral hygiene is protected, it will greatly decrease the odds of gum disease development. If your child already has gingivitis, good dental care can help treat and eventually eliminate the problem.
If your child is 8 years old or younger, we recommend monitoring them when they brush their teeth. This way you can make sure they’re doing it properly and remembering to floss.
Additionally, try to help your child make good food choices. That means less sugary and acidic foods, which can be hard on teeth and contribute to decay. It’s also important to make sure they don’t eat after brushing their teeth before bedtime.
Contact Chicago KiDDS Pediatric Dentistry
If you’re concerned your child has gum disease or another dental issue, contact the professionals at Chicago KiDDS Pediatric Dentistry. We treat gingivitis in kids, tooth decay, dental injuries, infections, and more. We also offer preventative dentistry services, such as dental exams and teeth cleanings, to help prevent gum disease and other issues.
Give us a call at (708) 448-6700 to schedule an appointment, or contact us online today!
