Oral Health For Kids and Preventing Gum Disease

Creating a disease free and healthy smile that lasts a lifetime begins during childhood. Teaching kids proper oral hygiene from the start is extremely important, not only to prevent cavities and promote cleanliness during childhood, but to prevent dental problems later in life, such as periodontal disease.
Although kids rarely develop gum disease in the serious form of periodontitis, teenagers can develop gingivitis, the more preliminary form.

few tips on encouraging kids to implement optimum oral health practices:

Teach children how to brush their teeth well and properly. Kids should brush their teeth at least twice a day, but after every meal is best. It is recommended for
children to floss at night before bed as well. Check with the dentist for age appropriate dental hygiene practices for your child.
Prioritize visiting the dentist routinely, as recommended for regular check-ups and cleanings for kids.
Promote nutritious “tooth-healthy” meals and try to keep kids from snacking continually between meals.
Consider using fluoride to protect your child’s teeth. Talk to the dentist about fluoride toothpaste recommendations and fluoride varnish treatments. Most tap water also contains fluoride.
Discuss dental sealants with the dentist. Sealants shield teeth from bacteria that cause tooth decay and other dental problems.

Signs And Symptoms of Gum Disease

Usually symptoms of gum disease do not appear until a person is in his or her 30s or 40s, but as mentioned, teenagers can develop gingivitis. Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease for teens or adults include:

  • Persistent foul breath or taste.
  • Swollen or red gums.
  • Loose permanent teeth.
  • Tooth sensitivity.
  • Painful chewing.
  • Teeth appearing longer
  • than normal or receding gums.
  • Sensitive or bleeding gums.

If a child is experiencing any of these symptoms, a serious dental problem may be in the process of progressing. It is recommended to make an appointment with the dentist immediately if a child complains of any of these symptoms.

Treatment and Prevention For Gum Disease

The top priority of treatment is to restrain the infection. Treatment options for periodontal disease vary depending on the type and extent of the disease. Early gum disease, gingivitis, can be treated and reversed with proper oral care and regular professional teeth cleanings. More severe gum disease, periodontitis, may also be successfully cured, but treatment is usually more involved. More extensive treatment may require deep cleaning of the root surfaces of the tooth
under the gums, medications, and in extreme cases, restorative surgery.