Cavities aren’t the only threat to your little one’s smile. According to the Boston Children’s Hospital, at least 50% of children have a form of periodontal disease. Although it’s often believed to only affect adults, children aren’t immune to the infection. While you reduce your child’s risk of tooth decay, don’t forget to safeguard their smile from gum disease. Here’s what you can do to keep their gums healthy.
Causes of Gum Disease in Children
Gum disease in children is most often caused by poor oral hygiene. Brushing alone isn’t enough to keep their gums healthy. Their toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in their mouth, leaving up to 40% of their teeth surfaces uncleaned. Flossing is the only way to remove the buildup their toothbrush can’t reach.
Around the age of six or seven, children should begin flossing their teeth every day to remove plaque. Plaque harbors harmful bacteria that can inflame and irritate their gums. With no treatment, the infection can destroy the supporting structures of your child’s teeth. In addition, gum disease has been linked to several health problems. Daily flossing is the best way to protect your child’s smile from gum disease.
Signs of Gum Disease
The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which is easy to treat. However, if the infection progresses to advanced periodontitis, your little one can suffer irreversible damage. Don’t ignore the signs of gum disease, which include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Gum line recession
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Chronic bad breath
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Tooth sensitivity
In addition to monitoring your little one’s smile at home, they should see their dentist every 6 months for a dental cleaning and checkup. Their dentist will examine their gums to detect anything concerning for prompt treatment.
Treating Gum Disease in Children
If gum disease is caught early, changes to your child’s oral hygiene routine are often all that’s needed to restore their oral health. Their dentist may perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line. When combined with proper brushing and flossing habits, you can keep your child’s smile healthy.
Good oral hygiene is key to preventing gum disease. Ensure your little one brushes their teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. They should floss their teeth every day. If traditional floss is too difficult for their small hands to use, a water flosser is an easy and effective solution. A gentle stream of water removes the buildup their toothbrush can’t reach.
About Dr. Kelsey Hill
Dr. Hill earned her dental degree at Boston University and has continued her education to provide various advanced services, including dental implants, CEREC restorations, and gum disease therapy. She treats patients of all ages using the latest innovations in dentistry. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (207) 618-9587.