Can children be at risk for periodontal disease?

You want to check all the boxes when you consider your child’s dental health. You make sure your child brushes twice daily to avoid cavities. You’ve made a plan for an orthodontic checkup just in case braces are needed. You insist on a mouthguard for dental protection during sports. One thing you might not have considered? Protecting your child from gum disease.

We often think about gum disease, or periodontitis, as an adult problem. In fact, children and teens can suffer from gingivitis and other gum disease as well. There are several possible reasons your child might develop gum disease:

Poor dental hygiene

Two minutes of brushing twice a day is the recommended amount of time to remove the bacteria and plaque that cause gingivitis (early gum disease). Flossing is also essential for removing bacteria and plaque from hard-to-reach areas around the teeth.

Puberty

The hormones that cause puberty can also lead to gums that become irritated more easily when exposed to plaque. This is a time to be especially proactive with dental health.

Medical conditions

Medical conditions such as diabetes can bring an increased risk of gum disease. Be sure to give us a complete picture of your child’s health, and we will let you know if there are potential complications for your child’s gums and teeth and how we can respond to and prevent them.

Periodontal diseases

While less common, more serious periodontal diseases can impact children and teens alongside adults. Aggressive periodontitis, for example, can cause significant damage, leading to the loss of connective and bone tissue around the teeth, ultimately resulting in loose teeth and even tooth loss. If you have a family history of gum disease, it’s important to let your Roseville periodontist know, as genetics can play a role in your child’s oral health. Additionally, be sure to mention any signs of gum disease you’ve noticed in your child, such as persistent bad breath, red or swollen gums, or bleeding gums during brushing or flossing. Early detection and intervention are crucial for preventing the progression of gum disease and safeguarding your child’s oral health. Here at Arbor View Dental Group, our team of experienced professionals offers comprehensive Periodontal Therapy in Roseville, CA, to effectively treat and manage gum disease in patients of all ages.

How can we help our children prevent gum disease? Here are some symptoms you should never ignore:

• Bleeding gums
• Redness or puffiness in the gums
• Gums that are pulling away, or receding, from the teeth
• Bad breath even after brushing

The best treatment for childhood gum disease is prevention. Careful brushing and flossing and regular visits to our Roseville dental office, CA for a professional cleaning will stop gingivitis from developing and from becoming a more serious form of gum disease. We will take care to look for any signs of gum problems, and have suggestions for you if your child is at greater risk for periodontitis. Together, we can encourage gentle and proactive gum care, and check off one more goal accomplished on your child’s path to lifelong dental health!