Kids Gum Disease Symptoms and Treatment Options

Did you know that approximately 50 percent of children have some form of gum disease? Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is a preventable condition that occurs due to the buildup of plaque and tartar at the gum line, where bacteria thrive and begin to destroy the sensitive gum tissues. At its earliest stage, gum disease is called gingivitis and can be reversed, but gum disease can cause irreversible harm to the gums, teeth, and underlying bone if left untreated. At Mona Dental for Kids in Spring, Texas, we monitor each child for signs of gum disease and offer effective treatment options to restore health and vitality to your child’s growing smile.

Signs of gum disease in kids

Part of why children need to see their dentist regularly is because gum disease is often painless, and you or your child may not notice that they have it. Some of the symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Red or swollen gums
  • Soreness in the gums
  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing
  • Receding gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Loose teeth (that are not naturally falling out due to development)
  • A shift in the teeth or bite alignment

While gum disease is largely preventable with good daily oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, some kids are at a greater risk of developing gum disease. Risk factors include:

  • Mouth breathing
  • Taking certain medications
  • Clenching and grinding the teeth
  • Diabetes
  • Certain autoimmune diseases
  • Hormonal changes (for example, during puberty)
  • Having certain genes
  • Poor diet
A boy holding an apple

Treating gum disease in kids

Fortunately, most children with gum disease have the mildest form, gingivitis, which can be controlled with a diligent home care routine and professional dental cleanings. We work closely with families to identify the best home care and dental visit regimen for their child’s age and oral health to ensure the best results. Patients with more advanced gum disease may need additional treatments beyond a more rigorous oral hygiene routine, such as deep cleanings, the use of antibiotic medications to address the bacterial infection or laser therapy.

If you suspect that your child has the beginnings of gum disease, early treatment is the best way to restore health to your child’s smile. Call Mona Dental for Kids at (832) 662-3008 today! We proudly serve patients in the Spring, Tomball, Woodlands, Champions, Conroe, and neighboring communities.