Periodontal disease, a chronic inflammation of the gums, is a common oral health problem in adults. But can children have periodontal issues? In this article, we address this question and talk about periodontal care for children.
Can Children Have Periodontal Issues?
Children can have periodontal issues. Gum disease can develop in children in the following cases:
- Insufficient oral hygiene, plaque buildup, and bacterial growth in the mouth
- Habitual mouth breathing
- Presence of certain general health conditions, such as diabetes
- Hormonal changes during puberty
- Genetic predisposition, especially combined with other factors
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease in Children
If you notice the following symptoms, we recommend signing up your child for a dental appointment as soon as possible:
- Gums look puffy, swollen, red, or irritated.
- Bleeding that often occurs when brushing and flossing.
- The gum line is higher than before and exposes more of the teeth’s surface.
- Unstable teeth (move then touched)
- Changes in how teeth fit together in the mouth or changes in bite (for example,
- teeth that shift apart)
- Persistent bad breath and unpleasant taste in the mouth that do not go away after brushing and flossing
- Pus in periodontal pockets (areas where gums attach to the teeth)
Importance of Prompt Treatment of Periodontal Issues in Children
Periodontal disease can be fully reversed only in its earliest stage, called gingivitis. If it goes unnoticed and unaddressed, gum disease becomes chronic and can only be controlled, but not fully treated, from this point on. Gum disease can cause numerous oral health issues, such as:
Changes in jawbone structure: gum disease can not only damage the gum tissue, but also spread to the bone underneath it and destroy its structure.
Tooth loss due to jawbone damage
General health-related issue: gum disease is closely associated with lung, joint, and heart issues, and can negatively influence blood sugar levels.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease in Children
The most effective way of preventing gum disease is teaching your child how to maintain adequate oral hygiene, which consists of the following steps:
- Thoroughly brushing teeth twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Your child should spend two full minutes brushing their teeth, paying special attention to the back of their mouth and the gum line.
- Flossing is another essential step of your child’s oral hygiene. If flossing is challenging for your child, try using special flossing tools, such as floss picks for kids or floss threaders. Ensure your child does not push the thread too far or injure their gums in the process.
- Another helpful tool to have for your child’s oral hygiene is a water flosser. It is easy to use and has been proven effective in preventing gum disease. However, it should be used as an additional step in your child’s oral hygiene routine, not as a replacement for traditional flossing and brushing.
- Ensure that your child gets dental checkups, professional cleanings, and fluoride treatments twice a year. Having their teeth professionally cleaned regularly will help control tartar buildup (one of the leading causes of gum disease), and fluoride treatments will remineralize enamel and help reduce bacterial growth in the mouth.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages in your child’s diet. Both sugar and acid can damage the enamel, making teeth more prone to decay and increasing bacterial growth in the mouth.
Make an Appointment with David Kao DDS
If you notice signs of periodontal issues in your child, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at our office. We are looking forward to welcoming you and your family to our dental office.
