According to Dr Vishwas Patil, Head, Pediatric Dentistry, Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune, if plaque is not being removed regularly, it can harden and turn into tartar, which in turn irritates gums and causes them to become red, swollen and bleed easily.
Dental hygiene is important for all, irrespective of age. But it is much more vital for babies and adolescents who are at higher risk of tooth decay, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
One of the most common dental ailments that affects children of all ages is pediatric gingivitis — the main cause of which is the build-up of plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth when food particles mix with saliva.
According to Dr Vishwas Patil, Head, Pediatric Dentistry, Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune, if plaque is not being removed regularly, it can harden and turn into tartar, which in turn irritates gums and causes them to become red, swollen and bleed easily.
Sign and symptoms of pediatric gingivitis
Dr Patil noted that pediatric gingivitis often presents with mild symptoms that can easily go unnoticed, however, certain children may experience specific indications, including red and swollen gums, bleeding gums during oral care routines, gum tenderness, bad breath, and a sensation of loose teeth.
“If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is important to see a pediatric dentist right away. Early treatment can help prevent the condition from progressing to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the bones and tissues that support the teeth,” he said.
Risk factors
There are several factors that can increase the risk of pediatric gingivitis. “Poor oral hygiene and multiple decayed teeth in children who do not brush their teeth regularly or thoroughly are prone to develop gingivitis,” Dr Patil said.
Additionally, thumb sucking, bottle feeding, especially at night, dry mouth, improper chewing habits like food pouching or retention in the mouth, and mouth breathing can make children more susceptible to gingivitis.
Further, there are a host of medical conditions that can increase the risk of pediatric gingivitis, including diabetes, sickle cell anaemia, immune system disorders, certain medications such as steroids, and vitamin C deficiency.
“If your child has any of these medical conditions, it is important to talk to your pediatric dentist about how to prevent and treat gingivitis,” Dr Patil noted.
However, the good news is that pediatric gingivitis is a preventable condition. Here are some tips to prevent gingivitis in children, as per the expert:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste daily to brush your child’s teeth.
- Floss your child’s teeth once a day.
- Take your child to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Limit your child’s intake of sugary drinks and snacks in between meals.
- Instill in your child the habit of drinking plenty of water.
- Teach your child about the significance of good oral hygiene.
- If your child has a medical condition that increases their risk of gingivitis,
- talk to their doctor about ways to manage the condition.
By following these tips, you can help keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy and prevent pediatric gingivitis.