Gum disease is also called periodontal disease. While mistakenly taken lightly by many, gum disease is actually a serious bacterial infection among young children and even adults. One of the top contributors to gum disease is the buildup of plaque on the teeth, containing bacteria, brought about by poor oral health. Not only does it destroy the surrounding gum area, but it can also affect nearby teeth’s supporting structure.
This fact alone should be more than enough for parents to protect their kids against gum disease. The aim of promoting overall health in children should include oral health. Taking a more proactive approach to preventing gum disease starts with good oral habits, coupled with knowing the early signs. When such appears, don’t delay a trip to your trusted dentist. These are a few of the warning symptoms to look out for.
Bleeding Gums
Gums aren’t meant to bleed after brushing or flossing. When they do, this could be an early sign of gum disease.
A child’s gum can start bleeding due to inflammation. It happens when your child is not brushing enough, leading to plaque accumulating along the gum line. Every time you’re tempted to skip brushing your teeth, remember that you are allowing bacteria to settle and spread.
Red, Swollen, Sore Gums
Normal gums look pink to pale red. They shouldn’t be too red, nor should they also feel sore. Parents can notice their children having sore gums when they complain of pain, touch their gums frequently, and have a decreased appetite. Inflammation and infection also manifest through a fever.
If that happens, your dentist Forrestfield may check your child’s gums and prescribe an antibiotic to help fight the bacteria causing the soreness. Paracetamol may also be given to relieve the pain.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath in children is supposed to improve once regular flossing and brushing are maintained. If it doesn’t, your dentist may look deeper into other causes. One of the most pertinent is gum disease.
It’s no secret that bacteria and plaque or tartar are dirty. When your mouth and gums are surrounded with dirt, it’s not surprising how it’ll also smell dirty. Practising good oral habits is key to fighting off bad breath.
If necessary, your dentist may temporarily prescribe a gum-friendly or gum-specific toothpaste. You may be brushing well, but if you aren’t using enough toothpaste or the right one for your child’s needs, you’re still not giving it the thorough clean it deserves.
Loose Teeth
Young children will lose their baby teeth when the right age comes. This is also why timely and regular visits to the dentist are imperative. Your child’s dentist can help determine when certain baby teeth are expected to fall, usually at the start of age five to six.
If the teeth become loose or fall earlier than they should, it may not necessarily be linked to growing adult teeth. Instead, it may signify a deeper problem, often leading to gum disease. A dentist can help spot any problems related to falling teeth, so if it’s not associated with growing new adult teeth, proper remedy and medication can be given.
Losing or falling teeth due to gum disease happens when the tooth no longer has a strong support or foundation on the affected gum area. In worst cases, the root and tooth itself would’ve already been eaten up by the bacteria, killing and decaying the tooth and making it fall.
Receding Gums
Receding gums happen when the gums are pulling away from the teeth. The farther the gum recedes, the more likely the teeth roots will be exposed. This situation isn’t only unsightly, but it’s also unhealthy. It’s caused by various factors, and two of the most pressing are poor oral hygiene and gum disease.
The most apparent giveaway a child is suffering from receding gums is that the roots are showing. There are, however, other warning signs like:
- Sensitivity and pain during the professional dental cleaning;
- Pain or discomfort along the gum line area;
- Sensitivity to sweet food and hot and cold drinks.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’re aware of the warning signs of unhealthy gums, it is best to give your kids’ gums a thorough look or check. Are they red, swollen, and sore? Or does it bleed once in a while as you brush their teeth? If the answer to these questions is yes, it is a warning sign to take your child to their pediatric dentist as soon as possible. The warning signs mentioned above will serve as your guide to protect your children’s oral health.
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