Definitely YES! Children can get gum disease just like how adults get the disease.
Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is a type of infection that affects the gums surrounding the teeth. Gum disease is one of the major reasons for tooth loss among adults and since the disease is pain-free, a lot of people don’t know that they already have it. But a regular visit to the dentist can help detect the signs of gum disease by determining the spaces between your gums and teeth.
If left untreated, gum disease can become serious, which can lead to tooth loss.
Gum disease is normally due to plaque buildup. Plaque is an indistinguishable sticky layer of germs that occurs naturally in the gums and teeth. The plaque has bacteria, which creates toxins that harm and irritate the gums.
There are a lot of kinds of bacteria that live in the mouth, so making sure plaque formations is controlled is important. That is why brushing and flossing your teeth daily and regular appointment to the dentist is vital.
Educating your kids early on proper oral hygiene is a must, not only to inhibit growth of cavities and promote cleanliness but to help in preventing oral health problems later in life like gum or periodontal disease. Though children don’t usually develop serious gum disease, teenagers, however, can develop gingivitis, which is the initial form.
Here are few helpful tips in teaching kids to practice proper oral health care:
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is a type of infection that affects the gums surrounding the teeth. Gum disease is one of the major reasons for tooth loss among adults and since the disease is pain-free, a lot of people don’t know that they already have it. But a regular visit to the dentist can help detect the signs of gum disease by determining the spaces between your gums and teeth.
If left untreated, gum disease can become serious, which can lead to tooth loss.
Gum disease is normally due to plaque buildup. Plaque is an indistinguishable sticky layer of germs that occurs naturally in the gums and teeth. The plaque has bacteria, which creates toxins that harm and irritate the gums.
There are a lot of kinds of bacteria that live in the mouth, so making sure plaque formations is controlled is important. That is why brushing and flossing your teeth daily and regular appointment to the dentist is vital.
Oral Health for Kids and Preventing Gum Disease
Educating your kids early on proper oral hygiene is a must, not only to inhibit growth of cavities and promote cleanliness but to help in preventing oral health problems later in life like gum or periodontal disease. Though children don’t usually develop serious gum disease, teenagers, however, can develop gingivitis, which is the initial form.
Here are few helpful tips in teaching kids to practice proper oral health care:
- Make sure to visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular assessment and cleaning for children.
- Teach children about the right food choices and try to keep them from eating snacks in between meals.
- Consider letting your kids use fluoride toothpaste to protect their teeth. Consult your dentist on the type of fluoride toothpaste and fluoride varnish treatments.
