Every parent knows the importance of semi-annual trips to the dentist. Cleanings are necessary to prevent cavities, and preventing cavities is just one of the many things parents can do to ensure their children are happy and healthy.
There is, however, one oral-related health problem some parents don’t monitor closely enough: gum disease. Luckily, our family dentistry office is on top of this disease and provide a vast amount of easily understood, and accessibly, information concerning the effects of gum disease.
Gum disease has a host of risks, including:
- The possibility of contracting chronic gingivitis. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, this is a fairly common issue in children. However, it can easily be prevented and treated.
- Aggressive periodontitis. This is more common in teenagers and young adults, and affects mainly molars and incisors.
- Generalized aggressive periodontitis. This occurs when periodontitis attacks the entire mouth, not just molars and incisors.
Obviously, none of the above risks are any you want your children to face. So in between visits to Clark Family Dental, you need to watch your children for the following symptoms:
- Bleeding gums that occur during regular tooth brushing/flossing, or at any other time
- Swollen, bright red gums
- Gum recession. This is identified by gums that recede away from teeth, at times receding so far the roots become exposed.
- Constant bad breath that doesn’t clear up, no matter the amount of brushing, flossing, and mouthwash your child uses.
While the above isn’t a complete list of gum disease symptoms, they are the most easily noticeable ones for parents to look for. If oral hygiene is neglected, it can quickly turn into one of the three aforementioned gum disease risks.
As a parent, the best thing you can do aside from checking the mouths of your children is to set a good example by openly practicing oral health habits. And at appointments for family dentistry in New Albany, ask our office about any signs of gum disease that you may have missed. Call us today to schedule your child’s next appointment, and protect them from periodontal disease.
