{"id":237,"date":"2023-02-15T13:11:00","date_gmt":"2023-02-15T13:11:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.huntingtonbeachperiodontics.com\/blog\/?p=237"},"modified":"2023-03-23T13:16:48","modified_gmt":"2023-03-23T13:16:48","slug":"gum-disease-in-children","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.huntingtonbeachperiodontics.com\/blog\/2023\/02\/15\/gum-disease-in-children\/","title":{"rendered":"Gum Disease in Children: What Parents Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Some people think that only adults have to worry about gum disease<\/a>. In reality, while the condition isn\u2019t as prevalent in children, it\u2019s still very much a possibility. Fortunately, there are plenty of steps that parents can take to keep their little ones\u2019 smiles safe. Here\u2019s what you need to know if you want to help your child avoid the worst consequences of gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Do Children Develop Gum Disease?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The most common cause of gum disease in children is the buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums. Plaque forms when harmful oral bacteria are allowed to feed on sugars and starches. When plaque builds up in the mouth and isn\u2019t removed, it can lead to inflammation of the gums. If your child isn\u2019t practicing good oral hygiene, they\u2019ll be at a higher risk for plaque formation that eventually results in gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease in Children?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most of the time, gum disease in children manifests as gingivitis. This can cause their gums to become red and swollen, and they might bleed easily when brushing and flossing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ignoring gingivitis for too long can cause it to turn into periodontitis, which is more likely to occur in children after they become teenagers. The symptoms of periodontitis are much more severe and can include gum recession, loose teeth, pus between the teeth and gums, and changes to bite or jaw alignment. Eventually, your child may even end up losing some of their permanent teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It goes without saying that it\u2019s best for your child to avoid gum disease altogether. You can help them keep their gums healthy by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n