According to the Indian Dental Association, gingivitis is an entry level form of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is caused by bacteria build-up in the mouth that goes untreated. The good thing about bacteria build-up in the mouth is that it's easy to treat - if you have the right plan in place. Good teeth- brushing and flossing can reverse the affects of gingivitis. However, severe gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which will require much more diligent management. Kids are at just as much risk of developing gingivitis as their parents, but certain scenarios increase the condition's potential in your kids.
Gingivitis And Your Children
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Spotting the Signs of Gingivitis
The Indian Dental Association further explains that gingivitis is relatively easy to diagnose on your own, as the warning signs are very visibly evident. If you suffer from gingivitis, some of the warning signs are swelling, bleeding gums, bright red or purple appearance to gums, gums that are tender when touched, mouth sores, swollen gums and shiny appearance to gums.
Why Gingivitis Is Common in Childhood
When your children were toddlers, you may have let them brush and floss on their own and then finished the job for them if they missed any spots. But as any parent knows, children are less likely to accept the help of parents as they grow and assert their independence. Therefore, the oral health habits that prevent gingivitis should be instilled when a child's first teeth erupt. Although some kids are thorough enough in their efforts to remove plaque from their teeth and gums, others will skip flossing and only give their teeth a cursory pass with the toothbrush if they can get away with it. If your children are in the latter category, continue to supervise their oral hygiene routines until they've adopted good habits.
Gingivitis During Puberty
A research study in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR) discusses that the onset of puberty can bring about changes in the hormonal levels which in turn may affect the gingival tissues in both males and females leading to altered tissue response to dental plaque and can lead to conditioned gingival enlargement. Daily flossing is critical, and you may want to consider the use of special toothpastes, which helps to reduce plaque and gingivitis. Kids at this age may also need to undergo dental cleanings more frequently than every six months, so consult your dental professional for their recommendation.
Severe gingivitis is just one step away from a chronic condition that requires frequent and costly dental procedures. Help your children prevent gingivitis by teaching them proper brushing and flossing habits early on and taking them for regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Also encourage them to assume responsibility for their oral health by detecting and reporting symptoms at the earliest stages when they can be treated conservatively. Taking ownership of their oral and overall health now is a habit that will serve your children for life.
