7 out of 10 Canadians will contract gum disease, professionally known as periodontal disease, at some point in their life. Children are not left out. If you notice any of the signs and symptoms we describe below, visit Your Dental Office, located in Toronto and Etobicoke, immediately before the case exacerbates.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a condition of the gums characterized by swelling, bleeding, and weakness of the gums. In most cases, the disease is a result of poor oral hygiene. The mildest form of gum disease is gingivitis. It develops when plaque forms on your teeth over a long time. If this plaque persists for long, it releases toxins that weaken the gums, making them red, puffy, and susceptible to swelling. If gingivitis is left untreated, it progresses to periodontitis, which causes inflammation and recession. Besides poor oral hygiene, other conditions that can cause gum disease include diabetes, poor diet, genetic predisposition, and certain medications.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
The signs of gum disease progress as follows from the mildest to the more severe signs:
• Bleeding of gums after brushing or eating hard food
• Red, puffy, and tender gums
• Consistent bad breath, even after brushing your teeth
• Visibly swollen gums
• Gums pulling away from your teeth
• Loose teeth, not caused by the impact of any force
If you notice the first sign in your child, visit Your Dental Office, located in Toronto and Etobicoke, for a dental check up.
Can Children Get Gum Disease?
Children are more prone to gum disease than adults. Most children start brushing their teeth at the age of four, and continue to do with or without an adult's supervision. If children do not brush their teeth thoroughly, they end up leaving plaque that can cause gum disease. Besides poor oral hygiene, children are not spared by other conditions that lead to gum disease, such as genetic predisposition.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health to Avoid Gum Disease
In order for both adults and children to avoid gum disease they should have a proper oral hygiene routine:
• Brush teeth at least twice a day – brush for at least two minutes
• Floss once a day
• Visit your Your Dental Office every six months
• Maintain a healthy diet
It is hard for children to understand the importance of good oral hygiene. As a parent or guardian, it is your responsibility to make sure your child is properly taking care of their oral health. Make sure to monitor your child's brushing and flossing habits, and be sure they are following a healthy and nutritious diet. If you have any concerns about your child's oral health, contact us today to schedule an appointment.