As a parent, you play an important role in teaching your child about dental health. In addition to making appointments with their dentist for teeth cleanings, you can help them develop healthy habits to prevent cavities and other conditions. By instilling these habits, you can prevent your child from developing periodontal disease. This guide will break down the basics or gum disease in children and how parents can prevent it. 

A Guide to Periodontal Disease

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the gum tissue. This condition can affect individuals of any age. Symptoms include red or swollen gums, tenderness, bleeding, pain while eating, receding gums, bad breath, and even tooth loss in advanced cases. 

What Causes This Condition in Children?

In most cases, poor dental care and plaque buildup cause gum disease in children. When your child does not brush their teeth properly or see their dentist for teeth cleaning, plaque can stick to the gum line. This plaque contains bacteria that causes an infection. Children with conditions like autoimmune diseases and diabetes may be more at risk for gum disease. Other risk factors include genetics, poor diet, teeth grinding, and mouth breathing. 

Are There Treatment Options?

Dentists will choose a specific treatment plan depending on the severity of your child’s infection. In some cases, they may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria in the mouth. They might also scrape plaque from the gum line and below the gums in a process called root planing. Some children may require oral surgery to eliminate the infection. The dentist will speak to you and your child about recovery and prevention following treatment. 

How Can It Be Prevented?

The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to commit to a dental hygiene routine, including daily brushing and flossing to remove plaque buildup. You should also schedule dental visits at least twice per year for teeth cleaning and a general checkup. If you notice any signs of gum disease between these appointments, call your child’s dentist. 

Preventing gum disease and other conditions start with finding the right dentist for your child. The team at Discovery Dental has been providing quality dental care for patients in Anchorage, AK, since 2013. From your child’s first dental visit, these dentists and hygienists will work to keep them comfortable during cleanings and procedures. From cavity treatment to emergency dentistry, these professionals will take an individual approach to your child’s care needs. To learn more about their services, visit them online. Call (907) 622-5437 to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment for your child.