Gum disease plagues the adult population in the United States, but did you know that this destructive oral health problem targets children, too? At Simply Children's Dentistry in Savannah, GA, your dentist, Dr. Kamiti Harden, checks kids for signs of gingivitis and periodontitis. She works with families to keep smiles healthy, bright, and long-lasting.
What is gum disease, and how does it happen?
The American Academy of Periodontology states that gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, is very common in children of all ages. Its inflammation begins in the soft, sticky plaque which forms on and between teeth and at the gum line. When not removed, plaque forms hard tartar. Both biofilms contain Strep bacteria which eat away at tooth enamel and gum tissue alike.
While poor diet, neglected oral hygiene, and heredity play significant roles in periodontal problems, hormonal fluctuations associated with puberty also factor into both gingivitis and periodontitis. Left untreated, gum disease leads to gum and bone recession, tooth loosening, and even tooth loss.
What are the signs of gum disease in children?
It's important to monitor your child's brushing and flossing habits at home and to inspect his or her teeth and gums regularly for signs of trouble. Commonly, symptoms of gum disease your pediatric dentist in Savannah looks for in kids include:
- Gum puffiness and redness
- Bad breath
- Gum tissue which has pulled away from tooth surfaces
- Loose teeth
- Changing dental bite
- Exposed tooth roots and dental sensitivity to heat, cold, and the pressures of biting and chewing
- Bleeding while flossing and brushing
What can we do to help?
At Simply Children's Dentistry in Savannah, Dr. Harden and her team like to see children by age one year as baby teeth are erupting and then, every six months thereafter. Cleanings and check-ups avoid problems such as tooth decay and gum disease and provide families the opportunity to learn the best oral hygiene practices.
At home, be sure your youngster brushes twice a day for two minutes and flosses daily. As your child grows, he or she will require less supervision, but in the meantime, be vigilant in getting that daily oral hygiene done and done well.
Offer a tooth-friendly diet, low in sugar, and have your child drink plenty of water. Perhaps most importantly, model excellent diet and hygiene habits yourself. Your child will follow suit.
Learn more about gum disease in children
Call your pediatric dentist at Simply Children's Dentistry in Savannah any time you have questions about your kids' dental and gingival health. It's so important. Contact Dr. Kamiti Harden and her team today at (912) 353-9993.