Effects Of Gum Disease On Kids

Gum disease on kids is one that causes inflammation of the bones and tissues that help support a child`s teeth. This usually occurs when there is an excessive buildup of plaque.

Stages of Gum Disease

Here are the general stages of Gum Disease and a few of the effects that come with each stage:

• Gingivitis – The early stages of Gum Disease are known as Gingivitis and, as stated earlier, come about due to excessive plaque buildup.
• Periodontitis–If Gingivitis is left untreated the gums become red and puffy and bleed easily when cleaning their teeth. This stage after Gingivitis is called Periodontitis and is also characterized by gum inflammation and gum recession. The unremoved plaque becomes hard and forms calculus or tartar which are very hard to remove using toothbrushes and other conventional cleaning methods.
• Localized Aggressive Periodontitis– If further left untreated Localized Aggressive periodontitis can occur which usually affects the first molars and incisors and can leave the patient with an acute loss of Jaw bone.
• Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis–This occurs around puberty and involves the entire mouth. It is marked by the inflammation of the gums and the heavy buildup of plaque and tartar. If left untreated this can lead to the teeth becoming loose which in turn can lead to the loss of teeth.

General Effects and Characteristics of Gum disease.

The following are some more effects and characteristics that Gum Disease has on Kids if untreated:

• If Gum disease does not receive appropriate medical attention, your child’s teeth may become loose and will eventually fall out.
• Generally, gum disease isn’t painful so your child may not realize they have an issue.
• The child will tend to have bad breath that will not go away.
• Pus may start to form between the teeth and the gums.
• In cases such as Localized Aggressive Periodontitis, there may be a change in the bite and jaw alignment.
• The Gumscan becomes discolored.
• The Gums appear to recede (or pull away from the teeth.)
• Plaque or white spots may appear on the gums.

If you feel your child may have gingivitis or later stages of gum disease, for pediatric dentists in Dubai feel free to contact us at our dental clinic in Oud Metha and talk to Dr. Bobby Paul, our resident expert in the field.

Discover how dental treatments like root canals can address kid’s oral health issues in our blog on Everything You Need To Know About Root Canal Treatment For Kids.