Our experienced pediatric dentists and team are here to help you keep your child’s mouth and smile healthy. While gum disease is more prevalent in adults, children are still at risk of developing this condition. If your child is diagnosed with gum disease, Dr. Derrick Cantu or Dr. Christi Wengler will work with them and with you to create a treatment plan and help them regain their oral health.
Gum Disease In Children
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition caused by harmful bacteria. These bacteria build up on your child’s teeth and gums, creating a sticky film known as plaque. This infects the gums, eventually leading to gum recession, tooth loss and other problems.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Our pediatric dentists will check for gum disease during each of your child’s regular exams, but there are a few symptoms which you can watch for at home as well. These symptoms include:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Gum recession
- Loose or separating teeth (possibly with abnormal spacing)
- Recurring bad breath
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Changes in your child’s bite or jaw alignment
Preventing Gum Disease
Gum disease can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. We recommend that you child:
- Brushes their teeth at least twice a day, using fluoridated toothpaste
- Flosses daily
- Uses mouthwash daily
- Eats a healthy diet, with limited intake of sugary foods
- Visits our pediatric dentists twice a year for routine cleanings and exams
Gum Disease Treatment
Our pediatric dentists will evaluate your child’s oral health and the severity of the disease before recommending a treatment. Mild cases of gum disease can often be treated with a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing. Antibiotic treatments may also be recommended. If your child’s condition is more severe, we may recommend a surgical procedure or another type of treatment. We will discuss all options with you so you can make an informed decision about your child’s treatment plan.
Schedule An Appointment
To set up an appointment with our pediatric dentists and learn more about gum disease therapy in San Antonio, Texas, please call Pediatric Dentistry of San Antonio today at 210-680-7841.