Most Marble Falls moms and dads are concerned about cavities. And rightly so. Tooth decay in children is a serious and widespread disease.
What about kids’ gum disease? Are children at risk for an oral ailment that is commonplace in the adult population?
Short answer: yes.
Let’s discuss it.
Children and teens are at risk of gum disease and the more advanced form called periodontal disease.
What causes gingivitis and periodontal disease?
Gum disease (gingivitis) and periodontal disease are caused by plaque buildup.
Food particles mixed with saliva produce a sticky film called plaque. Plaque generates bacteria. If it is not removed regularly with brushing and flossing, the bacteria multiply. The plaque builds up on the teeth.
The gums respond to the bacteria by becoming sore and inflamed. Plaque buildup hardens into calculus. Calculus cannot be removed by a toothbrush or dental floss. Calculus can be removed during a professional dental cleaning.
The American Academy of Periodontology recognizes three types of gum disease in children and teenagers:
- Chronic gingivitis
- Aggressive periodontitis
- Generalized aggressive periodontitis
Chronic gingivitis
This is the most frequent kind of gum disease in children. The gums swell, turn red and may bleed. Gingivitis is usually caused by poor dental hygiene. Proper oral hygiene includes daily brushing and flossing.
Gingivitis can be prevented or reversed with daily oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. If the child doesn’t practice proper dental hygiene, however, the condition can become more severe.
Aggressive periodontitis
Aggressive periodontitis results in bone loss. It may affect only the first molars and incisors. It rarely occurs before puberty. Surprisingly, children with this type of disease may have minimal plaque or calculus.
Generalized aggressive periodontitis
This type, though less typical, is most likely to occur at the onset of puberty. It may be present throughout the entire mouth. It creates severe gum inflammation. There are significant amounts of plaque and calculus.
If left untreated, the bone loss becomes so acute the teeth become loose. Then the child is at risk of tooth loss.
4 key findings of gum and periodontal disease in youngsters:
- Children and adolescents who are generally healthy can have gum disease.
- Hormonal fluctuation that transpires with puberty ups the risk of periodontal disease. Researchers believe hormonal changes decrease the ability of the immune system to resist the bacteria in dental plaque.
- Epidemiologic studies indicate that gum disease of varying severity is nearly universal in children and adolescents.
- Periodontal disease is more likely to occur in youth ages 12-17 than those younger than 12.
Signs of periodontal disease:
- Swollen, tender gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Gum recession
- Bad breath
- Unusually large spaces between teeth
- Pus between the gums and teeth
- Changes in bite alignment
At Ritchie Dental Group, we treat all pediatric oral conditions including gingivitis and periodontal disease. Twice-yearly dental cleanings and examinations are important. If you are looking for an experienced, friendly pediatric dentist, we invite you to call us today and schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you and your child!
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=90&contentid=p01865
https://www.aapd.org/research/oral-health-policies–recommendations/periodontal-diseases-of-children-and-adolescents/
Contact Ritchie Dental Group:
30-693-8833
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1000 Marble Heights Dr, Marble Falls TX
Marble Falls, Texas
78654
The holidays are a busy and exciting time of the year as you celebrate the season with friends and loved ones. Often, this means you’ll be traveling at some point during the next few weeks. When you’re away from home, it’s easy to break your daily routine. As a result, a few bad habits might sneak in, like not brushing your teeth before going to bed or constantly snacking. Although your schedule might be a bit hectic while you’re traveling, don’t put your smile at risk. Your dentist in Brady has 5 easy tips to help you maintain your dental health while on the road.
You know your teeth and gums are influential in your dental health, but did you know your saliva is equally important? You need just the right amount to keep your smile healthy. Unfortunately, 65% of people experience dry mouth (xerostomia) at some point during their life. Although it may not seem concerning at first, if it’s an ongoing problem, it’s time to see your dentist in Marble Falls. They’ll find the underlying cause and create the customized treatment plan you need.
Today, more Americans than ever have dental insurance; however, one-third of adults don’t visit their dentist regularly. Often, people delay scheduling appointments because they worry about a large bill, but you have nothing to fear when using your insurance. You can get the affordable services you need for minimal out-of-pocket expense. It’s often recommended you visit a dentist who is in your network to make the most of your coverage, but you still have the freedom to visit one that’s out-of-network. Are you asking yourself, “how does my dental plan work if I’m out-of-network?” Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your benefits.
