Gum Disease In Children: Symptoms And Treatment Options

Gum disease, aka periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums causing them to bleed, swell, or if left untreated, could lead to tooth loss at the very worst. At Bayside Kids Dental in Odenton, we know gum disease is as common in children as in adults. If your child experiences swollen or bleeding gums or has bad breath that will not go away despite consistent flossing and brushing, it might result from gum disease. The good news is gum disease is treatable, however, it should not be ignored as it might cause tooth loss and severe soft tissue damage. 

Signs your child might have gum disease:

• Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums (healthy gums should be pink and firm)
• Bad breath that won’t go away despite consistent flossing and brushing
• Changes in bite and jaw alignment
• Receding gums (gums that pull away from the teeth)
• Pus between the teeth and gums

Gum disease can lead to serious oral health problems such as tooth loss if left untreated. If your child experiences any of the above symptoms, you should visit pediatric dentists, Drs. Kenny and Sarrah Zamora, they will diagnose and offer treatment options.

Treatment options for gum disease depend on the severity of the condition. They include, but are not limited to:

• Frequent cleanings and good oral hygiene habits:  For mild gum disease, your child might need to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and have regular dental checkups
• Scaling and root planing: A deep cleaning procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and roots and smoothing out any rough spots to help prevent future buildup.
• Medicine: Sometimes, a dentist might recommend antibiotics to help fight the bacteria.
• Surgery: For very severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage to the bone or gums

Though gum disease is treatable, prevention is key. The best way to prevent gum disease in your children is to encourage good oral hygiene habits from a young age. It’s also important to limit sugary foods and drinks which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

If you notice any signs of gum disease in your child, it’s important to take them to the dentist for a checkup. With early detection and treatment, gum disease can be prevented from causing serious damage to your child’s teeth and gums.

Contact Bayside Kids Dental today to schedule an appointment. 

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.