When someone talks about gum disease, we usually think that it’s a problem that only adults face. But no, the truth is that it can also affect young children. Unfortunately, most of the time, it’s overlooked because kids and parents don’t notice the early signs. Read on to learn more about gum disease in children, why it happens, and how it can be treated.
Why Does Gum Disease Develop?
As a parent, you may already be aware that one of the main causes of dental issues is plaque buildup on teeth. This sticky layer, made of food debris, sugars, and bacteria, can irritate your gums if it is not cleaned regularly.
Early-stage gum disease, also called gingivitis, leads to swollen or inflamed gums. You may also see bleeding, especially when you brush your teeth.
If you leave it as it is and don’t get professional help, the infection can slowly spread below the gums and even reach your jawbone.
Can Children Get Gum Disease?
Yes, kids can also develop gum disease the same way it develops in adults. In fact, when parents first learn that their child has gum disease, they often get confused, thinking how a child could have this issue. Although less common, gum disease in children should not be ignored.
Now the problem is that many kids love to eat candies and sweets. On top of that, they often have a hard time cleaning their teeth daily or cleaning them the right way.
All these factors combine, and they can eventually put your child at risk of gum disease.
Signs of Gum Disease in Kids to Look Out for
Most kids have the early form of gum disease, which is gingivitis. It causes red, puffy gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing. If it keeps worsening, you may notice other signs such as:
- Your child’s gums bleed sometimes, even without any cause
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from teeth
- Teeth become loose or unstable
- Bad breath that does not get better with brushing
- Pus between teeth and gums
Before these serious symptoms occur and ruin your little one’s smile, you should see a dentist at the earliest stage possible.
How Does Gum Disease Treatment Work for Children?
Gum disease won’t get better on its own. But the good news is that it is treatable. The pediatric dentist will first check what signs of gum disease your kid has and how severe it has become.
Usually, kids only have mild symptoms, so dentists recommend dental cleaning to get rid of the sticky plaque on their teeth. These cleanings don’t take too long and are usually comfortable for children.
Your dentist will teach proper brushing and flossing techniques, and may recommend kid-friendly mouthwash to help prevent plaque buildup.
Summing Up
Gum disease can also occur in children, and if you leave it untreated for too long, your child may even end up losing a tooth or two. To prevent it from happening, visit our expert, Dr. Neil Dean, at KC Kids Dental as soon as you notice the early signs.
