Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that support and surround the teeth. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and gums. While it’s more common in adults, children can also develop gum disease, especially if they have poor oral hygiene.
Symptoms
Signs of gum disease in children may include:
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums (the gums pull away from the teeth)
• Loose teeth or a change in how teeth fit together
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums (the gums pull away from the teeth)
• Loose teeth or a change in how teeth fit together
Causes
Gum disease in children is usually caused by:
• Poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) to accumulate
• Hormonal changes during puberty, making gums more sensitive to irritation
• Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, that can increase susceptibility
• Genetic factors, where a family history of gum disease raises the risk
• Poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) to accumulate
• Hormonal changes during puberty, making gums more sensitive to irritation
• Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, that can increase susceptibility
• Genetic factors, where a family history of gum disease raises the risk
Diagnosis
At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, our pediatric dental team diagnoses gum disease by:
• Examining the gums for redness, swelling, or signs of bleeding
• Measuring the depth of pockets between the teeth and gums using a gentle probe
• Reviewing the child’s oral hygiene habits and medical history
• Taking X-rays to check for bone loss in more advanced cases
• Examining the gums for redness, swelling, or signs of bleeding
• Measuring the depth of pockets between the teeth and gums using a gentle probe
• Reviewing the child’s oral hygiene habits and medical history
• Taking X-rays to check for bone loss in more advanced cases
Treatment Options
Treating gum disease in children focuses on stopping the infection and restoring gum health. Our approach includes:
• Professional cleanings: Removing plaque and tartar to allow the gums to heal.
• Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure to eliminate bacteria below the gumline.
• Antibacterial treatments: Using medicated mouth rinses or topical antibiotics to fight infection.
• Education and guidance: Teaching children proper brushing and flossing techniques to prevent recurrence.
For severe cases, we work with periodontists (gum specialists) to provide advanced care.
• Professional cleanings: Removing plaque and tartar to allow the gums to heal.
• Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure to eliminate bacteria below the gumline.
• Antibacterial treatments: Using medicated mouth rinses or topical antibiotics to fight infection.
• Education and guidance: Teaching children proper brushing and flossing techniques to prevent recurrence.
For severe cases, we work with periodontists (gum specialists) to provide advanced care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can gum disease be reversed?
A: In its early stage (gingivitis), gum disease is reversible with professional cleaning and good oral hygiene. However, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) requires more intensive treatment.
Q: How can I prevent gum disease in my child?
A: Teach them to brush twice daily, floss regularly, and visit the dentist for check-ups and cleanings. A balanced diet also helps maintain gum health.
Q: Can gum disease affect my child’s overall health?
A: Yes, untreated gum disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even systemic issues like increased inflammation in the body.
Contact
Please feel free to contact us with any general or medical enquiry by calling us.
