Nearly half of the people in America experience gum disease, and parents should remain vigilant for early signs of the ailment in their child's mouth. The bacterial infection will destroy gums if left unchecked and can lead to tooth loss and other issues. Young children and teenagers are especially susceptible to specific diseases after gum infections, including chronic gingivitis and aggressive periodontitis. Here’s what you should know about periodontal disease and how the dentist treats it.  

What You Need to Know About Periodontal Disease

How does a child develop it?

Plaque buildup is the chief factor in gum disease. If a dentist does not remove it over time, it can harden into tartar, which contributes to periodontal infections and tooth decay. A list of circumstances, including poor diet, genes, and the onset of puberty, can lead to plaque development, with the increased hormones affecting their gum's sensitivity to bacteria and food particles.

What are the symptoms?

Since some forms of gum disease are relatively pain-free, parents must check their children's mouths occasionally for symptoms like bleeding or swollen gums. Gums receding away from the tooth and chronic bad breath are symptoms that require a visit to the dentist for a professional diagnosis.

How can it be prevented?

Young children and teenagers need to practice good oral hygiene at this delicate stage of their development, and practicing their dental routine at an early age will help. Parents should also set a good example by practicing good dental hygiene themselves. Schedule dental appointments twice a year for the entire family, and don't forget to reschedule if you miss your scheduled time.

What are the treatments?

If you detect gum disease in your child at its early stages, it can be treated with a few deep cleanings at the dentist. Once the infection becomes more advanced, antibiotic medicine may be used for treatment, and your dentist may schedule surgery to the infected areas under the gums in severe cases.

Are you looking for a dentist your entire family will love? Trust the experts at Dental Clinic of Onalaska in La Crosse County, WI, for all of your family dentistry needs. Serving the area for nearly 30 years, this professional team can help your loved ones with a variety of procedures, including cosmetic dentistry, teeth cleaning, and whitening. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (608) 783-3341 to schedule an appointment.