Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gum tissue around the teeth. When it goes untreated, it can spread to the ligaments and bones that support the teeth. This can lead to severe tooth damage or even tooth loss.
Because it's caused by bacteria buildup, gum disease is also linked to other health issues like heart disease. Bacteria in your mouth and gums can easily enter your bloodstream, where it can cause damage to the rest of your body.
It's more common for adults to develop gum disease than children, but gum disease does sometimes affect kids. Some people are genetically predisposed to the condition and can develop gum disease much easier than others. Certain risk factors can increase your child's chances of developing gum disease, too. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make sure your child's teeth and gums are strong and healthy.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE
The most noticeable sign of gum disease is red, swollen, or inflamed gums. Your child's gums might bleed after brushing or flossing, and your child might complain about pain or sensitivity around their teeth. Bad breath that doesn't go away after brushing and flossing is another common sign. If your child has severe or advanced gum disease, you may notice the gums starting to recede or pull away from the teeth.
You should contact your child's dentist if you notice any signs of gum disease. Treating the problem early will prevent more pain and damage, so you shouldn't hesitate to schedule a an appointment with your Katy TX Pediatric Dentist even if you're not sure whether there's a problem.
IMPORTANCE OF ORAL HYGIENE FOR CHILDREN
The younger your child is when you start to promote good dental habits, the more likely they'll be to maintain those habits throughout their whole life. You should assist them with brushing their teeth until they're old enough to do it properly on their own. Make sure they always brush twice per day and floss regularly. You should also bring your child to the dentist for regular checkups. Your dentist will look for signs of tooth decay or gum disease, and they'll teach your children healthy dental hygiene habits. Gum disease is a serious, painful problem for people of all ages. Children are just as susceptible as adults to developing gum disease if they don't take good care of their teeth. It's much easier to prevent gum disease than to treat it, so you should make your child's dental health a priority.