When people talk about gingivitis, they often picture older adults with gum disease. In fact, older adults are more likely to lose teeth to gum disease rather than cavities. Children, on the other hand, are more likely to get cavities. Seldom do people imagine children with gum disease, yet it is a problem for the young set as well.

CHRONIC GINGIVITIS

There are different types of periodontal diseases in children. Chronic gingivitis is one of them and it is common. Symptoms of gingivitis are red or bright pink gums that will also be swollen or puffy. They will bleed easily, too, when the teeth are brushed or flossed. As with adults, gingivitis in children needs to be treated to prevent it from advancing to a more harmful stage.

Gingivitis occurs when oral hygiene is poor. Improper brushing or not brushing or flossing the teeth will lead to gum disease. This is because plaque builds up on the teeth and causes infection and inflammation of the gums.

AGGRESSIVE PERIODONTITIS

Even otherwise healthy teenagers can have aggressive periodontitis. This type of gum disease affects the first molars and incisors for the most part. It is localized and causes the loss of alveolar bone. Where gingivitis is the result of plaque buildup, aggressive periodontitis does not necessarily have accumulations of plaque or tartar. In fact, there may be very little accumulation of those harmful substances.

GENERALIZED AGGRESSIVE PERIODONTITIS

This condition may manifest as the child comes into puberty. Generalized aggressive periodontitis does not just affect certain areas of the mouth, but rather it can involve all the teeth. Like severe periodontitis, this stage of gum disease is identified by inflammation of the gums and heavy accumulations of plaque and tartar. It needs to be treated as soon as possible because it can eventually lead to tooth loss.

SYMPTOMS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

It is fairly easy to tell if your child has periodontal disease. The four basic signs are:

• Bright red, swollen or puffy gums
• Bleeding with brushing and flossing teeth or at other times
• Gum recession and root exposure
• Chronic bad breath

ADVOCATE GOOD DENTAL HYGIENE

When your child reaches puberty, the likelihood of periodontal disease increases. Hormonal changes elevate the risks for problems. During pubescence, gums can be more sensitive and become irritated easily. Good oral hygiene is crucial to reduce the risk of periodontal disease.

Just Brush My Teeth can help with minimizing gum disease in your child. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with us.