Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition that’s more common than most people realize. It’s when there is a bacterial infection that impacts the gums. Gum disease occurs when tissue surrounding the teeth become inflamed and infected. Unfortunately, this is something that can spread to other areas, such as bones that support teeth and ligaments that hold teeth in place. There is a much greater chance of losing a tooth when gum disease is present, especially when it isn’t being treated.
There is a lot more awareness of gum disease and the impact that it can have on a person’s body. In fact, it has been associated with a lot of serious medical problems, such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Another reason why gum disease can be such a serious issue is because it can exacerbate other health problems. This is why it’s important to know whether or not you have gum disease. There are some people that are more likely to develop the condition than others because of genetics. While this isn’t the only risk factor, it’s one that’s worthy of consideration.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
When it comes to risk factors for gum disease, there are a lot of lifestyle choices that can minimize the possibility of developing the condition. The is especially true for kids. Fortunately, it’s possible to mitigate the risk by making simple changes. For starters, you can avoid feeding your kid certain types of foods, such as those that include sugars and starches. Both can elevate the risk of developing gum disease. Another way to lower the risk is by making sure your kid brushes their teeth regularly and flosses. It’s just as important for kids to brush and floss as it is for adults.
Signs of Gum Disease
When trying to determine if a child has gum disease, a dentist will look for the same things they look for when assessing gum disease in adults. Some of the common signs include bleeding gums when flossing or brushing. There’s also a chance that their gums will look swollen and red. In the event that the condition is advanced, they might have bad breath and their gums might be separated from their teeth. It’s important to see a dentist and catch any issues that might exist early on.
Importance of Early Oral Hygiene
Getting children accustomed to good oral hygiene practices early in life is critical. Even before you teach your kid how to brush their teeth with a toothbrush, you can start by cleaning their gums with a soft washcloth after every meal. You can also use damp gauze because it’s just as soft. When you see your kid’s first tooth start to erupt, it’s time to visit a pediatric dentist. With the help of a professional, you’ll feel more confident about knowing how to take care of your kid’s teeth and gums.
Prioritizing Dental Visits
As children get older, it’s important to make sure they maintain healthy teeth and good oral hygiene practices. The best way to achieve this goal is by prioritizing dental visits. This can also help to ensure they don’t have fear of the dentist, which is something that can linger into adulthood if it’s not addressed. Even something as simple as regular visits to the dentist can help your kid understand the important of good oral hygiene. More importantly, you can ensure any issues that exist are addressed before they advance.