Periodontal (Kids)

Many people think of periodontal disease as an adult problem. However, studies indicate that gingivitis (the first stage of periodontal disease) is nearly a universal finding in children and adolescents. Advanced forms of periodontal disease are more rare in children than adults, but can occur.

Types of periodontal diseases in children

Gingivitis usually causes gum tissue to swell, turn red and bleed easily. It is both preventable and treatable with a regular brushing, flossing and professional dental care. However, left untreated, it can eventually advance to more serious forms of periodontal disease.

Aggressive periodontitis can affect young people who are otherwise healthy. Localized aggressive periodontitis is found in teenagers and young adults and mainly affects the first molars and incisors. It is characterized by the severe loss of bone, and ironically, patients generally form very little dental plaque or calculus.

Generalized aggressive periodontitis may begin around puberty and involve the entire mouth. It is marked by inflammation of the gums and heavy accumulations of plaque and calculus. Eventually it can cause the teeth to become loose.

As with adults, periodontitis associated with systemic disease occurs in children and adolescents. Conditions that make children more susceptible to periodontal disease include:

• Type I Diabetes
• Down Syndrome
• Papillon-Lefevre Syndrome

For example, in a survey of 263 Type I diabetics, 11 to 18 years of age, 10 percent had overt periodontitis.

• Bleeding - Bleeding gums during tooth brushing, flossing or any other time.  This is caused by toxins created by bacteria, that irritate the gums making them tender and lead to bleeding.



• Puffiness - Swollen and bright red gums



• Recession - Gums that have receded away from the teeth, exposing the roots



• Bad breath - Constant bad breath that does not clear up with brushing and flossing