Part of caring for your child’s oral health is looking after the health of their gums. Because gingivitis (the early stage of gum disease) develops very progressively, it’s important to be aware of certain symptoms of the disease in order to have it treated at Jacaranda Smiles before it can spread to other tissues such as the dental roots or alveolar bones.
Tender gum tissue or bleeding gums
The gums may start to hurt when eating, flossing, or brushing. Infected gums may also bleed after flossing or eating. Having tender or bleeding gums may make it difficult to properly perform oral care, which can lead to further problems in the soft tissues or teeth. When you notice these symptoms, see your dentist in Plantation and Pembroke, FL for periodontal treatment as soon as possible.
Receding gum tissue
This may look as if the teeth are longer than before. Receding gum tissue can eventually expose the roots of the teeth, putting them at risk of becoming infected by food particles or bacteria.
Inflamed gums
The gums become inflamed or swollen as a result of an infection in the tissues. As the body sends blood cells to fight the infection, you might notice that the gums feel warmer. Swollen gum tissue will be sensitive to the touch. Until you can make a dental appointment, having your child rinse with cool water may help with discomfort.
Tooth pain
Your child may complain of pain in their teeth if the infection is located below the gums. The bacteria that causes gingivitis can also affect the teeth.
Loose teeth
If one or more of your child’s teeth are loose, and they are not baby teeth, it could be a sign of periodontal disease. It’s important to see your dentist at Jacaranda Smiles in either Pembroke or Plantation, FL as soon as possible in order to stabilize the tooth and prevent it from falling out.
Chronic halitosis
Occasional bad breath happens, but a consistent bad odor in your child’s breath could be caused by an infection. Brushing and flossing will not be sufficient to get rid of it.
A bad taste in the mouth
If your child complains of a constant bad taste in their mouth and mouthwash or oral hygiene won’t get rid of it, it could be due to gum disease inflammation. This symptom could make drinking and eating difficult.
If you have noticed any of these signs in your child’s oral health, make an appointment at Jacaranda Smiles at either our Pembroke or Plantation offices to receive periodontal treatment and restore health to the teeth and gums as soon as possible.
4 Orthodontist-Approved Tips for Early Gum Disease Prevention
Gum disease remains one of the most prevalent oral diseases among adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around half of adults 30 and older have gum disease. One of the best methods for dealing with gum disease is early prevention. Here, we’ll give you some tips for preventing gum disease.
1. Know Your Family History
It’s essential to know your family history. Gum disease tends to run in families. Your kids orthodontist will ask about the family’s history, including if anyone has had gum disease, weakened enamel, or other conditions that may be important to monitor. This disease tends to run in families, making prevention methods crucial for anyone.
2. Follow Good Oral Hygiene Practices
Developing a proper oral hygiene routine is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease. Brush your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day. Floss at least once daily to remove additional food and plaque as well. If your child has braces, it’s vital that your child knows how to properly take care of their braces to prevent cavities. A kids orthodontist can show your child how to clean their brackets to remove all the food properly. A waterpik can be a great way to “floss” while wearing braces in case you’re worried about your child missing any spots.
3. Attend Dental and Orthodontist Appointments
Children wearing braces or undergoing other orthodontic treatments may have more dental checkups than other patients. It’s crucial to attend these checkups. A dentist will also carefully examine your child’s teeth to determine if they have early signs of gum disease and will work with your child to develop a treatment plan.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet can go a long way in helping keep your teeth healthy. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, which are more likely to cause cavities and oral health issues. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Water is the healthiest drink to enjoy, and it will help rinse bacteria and food off the teeth and gums. Avoid sticky food that is hard to get off the teeth. If your child has braces, a kids orthodontist will list foods they can’t have.
Gum disease can be dangerous, and it’s important to make sure your child is taking preventative measures to maintain their oral health. Be sure to follow the tips above to keep your child’s teeth happy and healthy! Contact us today at Jacaranda Smiles for more information about early gum disease prevention or to schedule an appointment with us.