Without proper dental care, your child becomes susceptible to a number of different oral health ailments, from cavities to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues and can cause discomfort and pain. If you think your child has developed periodontal disease, use the following frequently asked questions to start a discussion with the dentist.

What You Need to Know About Periodontal Disease

What are the symptoms?

Gum disease can range in severity, but the beginning stages present with red, swollen gums and bleeding while brushing or flossing. As the disease progresses, your child may have gums that pull away from the teeth, bad breath that doesn’t go away, or a change in the alignment of the jaw and bite.

What causes gum disease in children?

The main culprit responsible for periodontal disease is a buildup of plaque on your child’s teeth. If this plaque isn’t removed with regular dental care practices, it will harden and turn into tartar, which causes cavities and degradation of the gums and surrounding tissues. While poor dental care habits can cause gum disease, it can also be accelerated by a diet high in sugar, hormonal changes during puberty, and teeth grinding.

Can it be prevented?

With the right dental care routine and regular visits to the dentist, you can help prevent the development of gum disease. This means ensuring your child is brushing twice a day for at least two minutes to remove all plaque from the surface of the teeth. They should also be flossing after brushing to remove any stubborn food debris that is stuck between teeth.

What treatments are available?

Treatments can vary based on your child’s age and the advancement of the condition, but early diagnosis is vital. Luckily, regular cleanings from the dentist can help treat the milder forms of the disease, while a deep cleaning may be recommended if it has progressed more significantly. Your child’s dentist will talk to you about all of the options and work with you to make the right decision for your child’s oral health.  

Whether you’re looking for more dental care tips or need to have your child assessed for periodontal disease, the professionals at Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage have the expertise you need. Dr. Chris Coplin is committed to providing families with a welcoming environment to receive their dental services, whether it’s a simple cleaning or a filling. To learn more about how they can improve your child’s smile, visit them online or call (907) 274-2525.