8 Signs that your child might have gum disease
We all want nothing more than to protect our children and seeing them in pain is almost unbearable for parents. Although we recommend that we see your child at least once every six months after the eruption of their first tooth, you need to check their mouths regularly to make sure that their teeth and gums are in tip-top shape.
Although gum disease in children is uncommon, bad eating and oral hygiene habits may make it possible.
Here are 8 things to watch out for that could suggest your child may have gum disease
1. Tooth discolouration
Gum disease often starts from bacteria from the tooth, so if your child’s tooth is darker in colour, it may suggest that they are suffering from gum disease. Discolouration may affect more than one tooth.
2. Pain when brushing
Infections make the gum sensitive and painful, making simple things like eating or brushing their teeth unbearable.
3. Bleeding gums
Blood will be seen when your child is brushing their teeth. If you suspect they may have gum disease be sure to check for blood whilst they are brushing their teeth.
4. Swollen gums and throat
If your child is suffering from gum disease then the tissue should turn red or dark pink and puffy. As the infection spreads, it may cause your child’s glands to swell causing immense pain and making it difficult to swallow.
5. Bad breath
Infections are caused by bacteria and a build-up of that can cause bad breath. This is especially true if your child’s teeth are already decaying.
6. Fever or earaches
As the infections spread to the throat, it can also cause an earache. Fever, vomiting, lack of energy and a weight loss also comes as a result.
7. A tooth abscess
This usually spreads slowly from the root of the tooth into the gums, creating a pus as the infections worsen. This pus may eventually create a hole through the tooth and the tissue, known as a ‘fistula’ or ‘sinus tract’. This allows the pus to drain and looks like a pimple inside your mouth. The infection can be caused from an untreated cavity, injury or old dental work.
How you can prevent your child from contracting gum disease
Prevention is better than cure here are a few tips to help you prevent your child from gum disease:
1. Make sure that they brush twice a day with a soft bristle toothbrush.
2. Flossing should start from when your child develops their first set of primary teeth. Brushing cannot reach all parts of your mouth and flossing plays a crucial role in fighting gum disease.
3. Cut down on sugary drinks and foods as sugar eats the enamel of your child’s teeth.
4. Do not allow your child to sleep with a bottle in their mouth.
5. Do not allow your child to eat after they brush at night.
6. Schedule regular dental appointments from when your child’s first tooth appears.
8 Signs your child has gum disease | Redlands Gentle Dental Care
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