Protecting Your Child From Gum Disease

You probably know that when it comes to the big bad wolf of oral health problems, periodontal disease is certainly quite the monster. However, if you don’t know much about what it is or how to prevent gum disease, you may find yourself at a loss regarding the protection of your little one’s smile. The good news is that understanding gum-related illness and how to avoid it is extremely simple. By becoming familiar with the basics, you will know what to do, what to tell your child, and when to call us if you feel something isn’t quite right. However, you should rest easy – safeguarding your child’s gum tissue is a breeze.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a problem that occurs when plaque has time to rest on teeth, migrating just beneath the gumline. If your child removes plaque every day, then there’s not much to worry about. However, if plaque is allowed to remain on a tooth surface for a few as 24 to 48 hours, it can quickly solidify and harden into a substance called tartar (or calculus). This cement-like tartar is something a patient cannot budge on his or her own. Unfortunately, plaque and tartar are full of bacteria, which will irritate gum tissue. When left for extended periods of time, the inflammation may lead to infection.

Are Children At Risk?

Yes, everyone is at risk for gum disease. While this is upsetting because, of course, you want your children to be invincible to everything, it’s nothing to feel too concerned about. As long as you take measures to protect your child’s smile, you can expect a clean, healthy mouth. Focus on keeping your son or daughter’s teeth and gums clean – it’s that simple. Daily brushing, daily flossing, and six-month dental cleanings will promote exceptional plaque removal. Keep in mind – if your child’s gums look inflamed, feel tender, seem red or purple, or if you notice any other changes, you should contact us immediately. The sooner we detect gum disease, the easier it is to treat.

ABOUT YOUR DALLAS, TX DENTIST:

At Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda, Dr. Marr provides gentle, compassionate children’s dentistry, including a comprehensive selection of treatments. In combined efforts with her considerate, experienced team, Dr. Marr promotes both comfort and education to safeguard your child’s oral health for many years to come. To learn more or to schedule a visit, contact our office at 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, Casa Linda, Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, East Dallas, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson, and surrounding communities.

filed under: General Dentistry, Preventive Treatments