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Elliot A Weinstein

periodontics | implants | esthetics

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Periodontal Disease and Children

Though our office typically treats adults, our patients treated for periodontal disease often ask if their children may be prone to ailments similar to their own. Although it is rare, there are occurrences where periodontal disease is found in children. Therefore, it is important to be able to identify your child’s possible periodontal issues early on.

In children, the three most common forms of periodontal disease are chronic gingivitis, aggressive periodontitis, and generalized aggressive periodontitis.

Chronic gingivitis is the most common of periodontal diseases found in children, and is usually indicated by red and swollen gums. Children whose gums bleed easily may also have chronic gingivitis. Generally, chronic gingivitis is both treatable and preventable with good oral hygiene. If your child has chronic gingivitis, it is vitally important to address the issue – as not treating the problem can develop into much larger periodontal problems later on.

Aggressive periodontitis occurs primarily in the first molars and incisors and is represented by a significant loss of the alveolar bone (the part of the bone that houses our teeth’s sockets). This is an issue found mostly in teens and young adults.

Generalized aggressive periodontitis is characterized by inflamed gums and is accompanied by excessive amounts of plaque and calculus.

Dr. Weinstein and the American Academy of Periodontology will tell you that there are four warning signs to look for in your child that could indicate periodontal disease:Bleeding puffiness recession, and bad breath

Bleeding – if your child’s teeth bleed during regular brushing or flossing

Puffiness – if your child’s gums appear to be inflamed or swollen

Recession – if your child’s gums have pulled away from the tooth and expose a significant amount of tooth

Bad breath – if your child still has bad breath after regular brushing and hygiene

As a parent, it is incredibly important to understand the warning signs of periodontal disease while also instilling in your child the proper oral hygiene techniques. This will allow you to help your child live a much healthier and happier life and avoid serious periodontal issues later on in life. Many periodontal diseases, especially in children, are preventable with excellent oral health care – be sure your child brushes three times a day (typically after each meal), flosses at least once, and stays on schedule with his or her visits with the dentist!

If you have questions about periodontal diseases, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call!

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