Gingivitis—an early form of gum disease—isn’t just a problem reserved for adults. While many young children are affected by this type of infection, Pediatric Dental Group explains there are several ways to prevent the issue. Focused on helping patients develop lifelong oral health, these Honolulu, HI, dentists highlight a few ways parents can encourage children to embrace dental hygiene practices that support healthy gums.

While daily dental hygiene can go a long way in preventing infection, it’s also important for kids to:

• Get Regular Cleanings: Twice-daily brushing and flossing is the best way to keep food particles and germs out of the mouth. However, everyone develops plaque buildup over time that cannot be removed through at-home dental care. As such, it’s critical for all patients to visit their dentist every six months for professional teeth cleaning. In addition to removing plaque and tartar buildup to protect gums, dentists use these biannual visits as a way to inspect for signs of gingivitis and offer early treatment solutions.
• Eat Smart: In general, children should avoid foods and drinks packed full of sugars that promote tooth decay and gum infection. However, they should also regularly consume nutritious foods that support gum health. For example, leafy greens and strawberries contain high levels of vitamin C, which can help boost immunity and fight against gum inflammation. Fibrous foods that require a lot of chewing—such as carrots and celery—help stimulate saliva production to flush out and neutralize oral bacteria.
• Control Chronic Conditions: Kids afflicted with certain medical problems, such as diabetes, might have a harder time fighting off infections. To help limit the risk of gingivitis, have these issues under control and keep up regular doctor’s visits to monitor changes in health.

Following these dental hygiene tips will certainly set your child up to enjoy a life full of healthy teeth and gums, but you should also keep an eye out for potential problems. Pediatric Dental Group encourages parents to regularly check for signs of gingivitis—such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If you notice these symptoms, this pediatric dental care team in Honolulu can help diagnose the condition and offer solutions to help reverse the problem. Visit them online to learn more about their available services, or call (808) 593-8828 to schedule a checkup.