{"id":103,"date":"2023-06-02T21:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-06-02T21:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.baldwinfamilydental.com\/blog\/?p=103"},"modified":"2023-07-20T21:02:59","modified_gmt":"2023-07-20T21:02:59","slug":"is-it-possible-for-children-to-develop-gum-disease","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.baldwinfamilydental.com\/blog\/2023\/06\/02\/is-it-possible-for-children-to-develop-gum-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"Is It Possible for Children to Develop Gum Disease?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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When most of us think about our oral health, our pearly whites are the first thing to come to mind\u2014but your gums are just as important as your teeth! And if you neglect to give them the attention they deserve, consequences such as gum disease might follow. But what about children; are budding smiles still susceptible to issues like gum disease, or can youngsters be a little lax about their hygiene habits? Unfortunately, gum disease can and does impact children who don\u2019t properly care for their smiles! Here\u2019s what your trusted pediatric dentist<\/a> wants you to know about gum disease in children, including some common symptoms along with some tips for preventing it.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

How Can Children Develop Gum Disease?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When bacteria and food debris remain lingering inside of the mouth, it can create a sticky film called plaque, which can build up and cause all sorts of oral health issues. Among these issues are swollen, inflamed, and bleeding gums\u2014an early form of gum disease. However, if left to worsen, teeth can eventually loosen and the soft tissues underneath them can sustain damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chronically poor oral hygiene that leads to plaque buildup is the most notable cause of gum disease, but other things might raise your child\u2019s risk for the condition. Certain genes, the tendency to breathe through the mouth, poor diet and lifestyle habits, bruxism, certain medications, hormonal changes, and various other things all contribute to gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common Symptoms Associated with Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease can range from mild to severe, but most children generally have a mild form known as gingivitis. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and sore, but it doesn\u2019t always cause pain\u2014sometimes allowing it to remain undetected. Some of the most commonly observable symptoms include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n