Look Out! Recognizing the Early Signs of Gum Disease in Children

As a parent, it can be difficult to know when your child may have developed gum disease. But being vigilant and aware of the early signs can help you identify gum disease in children quickly and take action to prevent more serious complications. In this article, we’ll guide you through the key signs of gum disease and how to recognize them in your child.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can affect both adults and children. It often starts as a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and irritation in the gums. As it progresses, plaque and tartar build up around the teeth, leading to further infection and gum recession. If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss and lead to systemic health problems.

Causes

Periodontal disease is caused by poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly. Other risk factors include genetic predisposition, smoking, eating a diet high in sugar, and certain medical conditions or medications.

Risk in Children

Certain things may raise your child’s risk for periodontal disease. These include:

• Certain genes
• Food stuck in the gums
• Mouth breathing, which may lead to severe drying of the gums and teeth in the front of the mouth
• Poor diet
• Smoking and using smokeless tobacco
• Autoimmune or systemic diseases
• Diabetes
• Hormonal changes in the body, such as during puberty
• Repeated clenching or grinding of the teeth that your child can’t control (bruxism)
• Certain medicines that can cause an overgrowth of the gums

Recognizing the Early Signs of Gum Disease in Children

Did you know that gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease? If you notice that your child’s gums bleed when they’re brushing their teeth or flossing, this is a sign of the early stages of gingivitis. Other signs of gum disease in children include:

• Bad breath that persists even after brushing
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Gums that are pulling away from the teeth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Pain when chewing
• Visible pus around the gums and teeth

What To Do If You Notice Early Signs of Gum Disease in Your Child?

If you notice any of the signs of gum disease in your child, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. The first step is to make an appointment with a dentist or periodontist for an evaluation. Your dentist may recommend one or more treatments depending on the severity of their condition, including:

• Good oral hygiene habits – brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental visits
• Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar build-up
• Antibiotic therapy to fight infection
• Medication that reduces inflammation or stimulates the gums to heal
• Surgery in severe cases 

Why Treatment is Important

Gum disease can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. The bacteria that cause periodontitis can enter your bloodstream through gum tissue, possibly affecting other parts of your body. For example, periodontitis is linked with respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease, preterm birth and low birth weight, and problems controlling blood sugar in diabetes.

Prevention

The American Academy of Periodontology counsels to establish good oral health habits with your child as the best defense against gum disease:

• Establish dental hygiene habits early. When your child is 12 months old, begin using toothpaste when brushing his teeth.  Start flossing when the gaps between the teeth close.
• Schedule regular dental visits. Dental exams, cleanings and periodontal evaluations are a key part of prevention.
• Examine your child’s mouth. Look for signs of periodontal disease such as bleeding gums, swollen and bright red gums, gums that are receding away from the teeth and bad breath.

Make an Appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles

By recognizing the early signs of gum disease and taking action, you can help your child avoid these serious complications. With proper treatment and a commitment to better oral hygiene habits, children can be on their way to healthy gums. If you’re concerned that your child may have gum disease or other dental health issues, we encourage you to make an appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles. Our team will provide a thorough evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan for your child’s unique needs. We look forward to helping your little one smile brighter!