If your child complains of sore, tender or bleeding gums after brushing or flossing, he or she may have early signs of gum disease. Healthy gum tissue and bone are necessary for each tooth. Gingivitis threatens the support system of your child’s teeth.
Gum disease involves irritation and infection of gingival tissue. This occurs when tartar buildup filled with harmful bacteria, accumulates along and underneath the gum line. Once the gums become inflamed and infected, the condition will only worsen without treatment from your periodontist and proper oral hygiene. When left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and bone deterioration.
How Can My Child Get Gum Disease?
A number of factors can contribute to the development of gum disease in children and adolescents. The most common factors involve inadequate oral hygiene and irregular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings and checkups. Other contributors to periodontal disease include certain medications and medical conditions along with hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty.
Types Of Gum Disease Seen In Adolescents
Chronic Gingivitis
Parents may suspect that their adolescent has chronic gingivitis if he or she shows or complains of symptoms such as redness, swelling or bleeding gums. Early treatment may prevent gingivitis from developing into a more severe form of periodontal disease.
Aggressive and/or Chronic Periodontitis
Chronic and aggressive periodontitis primarily affects incisors and first molars. One of its distinguishing characteristics is bone loss. Patients who suffer from this form of the disease have minimal dental plaque on examination.
Generalized Aggressive and Chronic Periodontal Disease
This form of periodontal disease has many of the same characteristics of the chronic and aggressive form, but this more severe type of the disease affects the entire mouth. Symptoms include major plaque and calculus accumulation and inflamed gums.
If your child has developed signs of gum disease or if your general dentist has recommended visiting a periodontist, contact Prestige Oral Surgery, to reserve an appointment at 732-297-7000.