Gum disease in Lake Zurich is a common problem among adults, but it is also a potential issue in young patients. Children may not be the primary demographic for periodontal disease; however, their young smiles, their novice oral hygiene skills, and their often unhealthy snacking habits make them ideal targets for bad oral bacteria to accumulate and spread throughout the soft oral tissues.
Gum Disease Symptoms in Children
Advanced gum disease may not be the main concern, but gingivitis can develop in children, and a qualified periodontist in Lake Zurich will need to treat the problem before it worsens.
Parents who are unsure if their children have gum disease should be mindful of the various symptoms that can often occur, such as:
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Bite misalignment
- Receding gums
- Sore, tender, and red gums
- Pus development between the tooth and gum tissue
- Gum bleeding from brushing and/or flossing
The Reasons Gum Disease Develops
Children are less likely to maintain regular oral hygiene routines unless parents remain diligent. They are also known for enjoying unhealthy snacks. Because these contain high amounts of sugar, plaque, which is a sticky substance, can adhere to their tooth enamel and begin to eat away at the outermost layer. It can also form around the gumline, which leads to gum disease.
If proper brushing and flossing are not performed at home, only professional instruments will be able to remove the accumulated plaque and tartar to ensure it doesn’t spread deeper beneath the gumline.
Some of the most common risk factors associated with gum disease that parents should be mindful of include:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Adolescent hormonal changes
- Weakening of the immune system caused by systemic conditions
- Mouth breathing
- Dry mouth
- Eating too many sugary and starchy foods
- Inadequate oral hygiene habits
How is Gum Disease Treated in Children?
Only until a periodontist can examine a child’s smile can they determine the best course of action. There are several methods used to clear away bad oral bacteria and restore a child’s gum health. Depending on the severity, however, it may require regular maintenance to reduce the chances of plaque and tartar re-forming on teeth and gums.
The available solutions to treat periodontal disease include:
- Scaling and Root Planing – This requires removing bacteria from the teeth and within the gum pockets before smoothing out the roots to encourage reattachment of the gums with the teeth. It also makes it harder for plaque to accumulate in these areas.
- Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry – Using a soft tissue laser, a periodontist can remove infected tissue while sterilizing it to minimize bleeding, swelling, and infection. The laser kills any bacteria and only targets the problem areas.
- Oral Surgery – Should a child have advanced gum disease, a gum graft or surgery may be necessary to improve the state of their gum health and prevent worsening oral and overall health problems.
A child’s smile should be treated with as much importance as an adult’s smile. Seeking periodontal therapy as soon as symptoms arise can mitigate the potential for future issues and keep young smiles looking and feeling their best.
About the Practice
At Grand Dental – Lake Zurich, we have an in-house periodontist who has years of experience in diagnosing and treating gum disease. We are well-equipped to handle advanced periodontitis as well as comparatively mild gingivitis in both children and adults. If you would like to schedule a periodontal appointment for your little one, visit our website or call (847) 443-3953.