What Parents Should Know About Gingivitis in Kids

Gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, is often unnoticeable in children. However, it is a serious condition  that should be addressed to prevent it from getting worse. In this blog, we will discuss what gingivitis is, its causes, and how you as parents can prevent and treat it in your children. To learn more about gum disease in kids check out our blog: Gum Disease in Kids: What Every Parent Should Know

Why Gingivitis in Kids Shouldn’t Be Ignored 

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. If gum disease is caught in the early stages, it can be treated very easily. If you don’t treat it, it can lead to bigger problems. 

• Tooth decay: The bacteria that cause gingivitis can also contribute to tooth decay, leading to cavities and potentially tooth loss.
• Difficulty eating: Sore or bleeding gums can make it uncomfortable for your child to eat, leading to poor nutrition.
• Impact on permanent teeth: Severe gum disease can affect the development of permanent teeth and increase the risk of future oral health problems.

Signs of Gingivitis in Children

Gingivitis can be tricky to detect. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

1. Red, swollen gum tissues
2. Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing
3. Persistent bad breath
4. Receding gums

Steps to Ensure a Healthy Smile

To ensure your child has a healthy smile and to prevent gingivitis from developing, follow these steps.

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

• Oral care should start early. Start brushing your child’s teeth as soon as their first tooth comes in. Start flossing when they have two teeth that touch. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush made for kids and fluoride or hydroxyapatite toothpaste. For children under two, only use a smear of toothpaste.
• Teach your child to floss daily to remove plaque buildup from between the teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach.
• Encourage your child to rinse with a kids’ mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth.
• Explain to your kids why it’s important to limit sugary foods and drinks. Too much sugar contributes to dental decay and gum inflammation.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

• Schedule regular visits to a kids’ dentist for professional cleaning and check-ups every six months.
• If your child has gingivitis or more advanced gum disease, a deep cleaning to remove tartar buildup might be required. 
• The dentist will monitor for warning signs and any stage of gum disease, ensuring it is caught and treated early.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

• Ensure your child eats a balanced diet to avoid poor nutrition, which can weaken oral health.
• Encourage them to drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth, which increases the risk of gum disease.
• Give your child xylitol gum or mints to chew. Xylitol protects teeth from tooth decay. .
• If your child has any medical conditions or takes medications known to affect gum health, discuss them with your dentist. They can tailor a treatment plan that suits your child’s needs.

Denver Youth Dentistry – Your Partners in Oral Health

Detecting gingivitis early in its mildest form can prevent it from progressing to a more severe form of gum disease. 

If you have any concerns about your child’s dental health, book an appointment at Denver Youth Dentistry. We have locations in Denver, Aurora, Hampden and Thornton. To book an appointment at any one of our locations, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online inquiry form.

We accept Medicaid and a wide range of insurance plans. 

FAQ About Gingivitis in Kids