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 When
children visit the dentist, parents' primary concern usually is decay,
not gum disease. However, having cavity-free teeth is only part of
having a healthy mouth. Children also face the threat of ginvititis,
an inflammation of the gums that can lead to other forms of
periodontal infection and the loss of bone and gum tissue surrounding
and supporting the teeth.
Gum disease traditionally has been linked to adults,
but studies have indicated that probably more than half of all
school-age children have some degree of gingivitis. So, don't be
lulled into a false sense of security when your children have had a
cavity-free visit. Parents need to be sure that their child's dentist
also performs a thorough evaluation of the gums, bone and soft tissue
at every visit, beginning with the child's first birthday.
There are about a half dozen classified types of
periodontal problems that affect young people. Gingivitis is the
mildest and most common form, and is often the result of inadequate
home care. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums and gums
that bleed when children chew, brush or floss their teeth. The problem
develops when bacterial deposits or plaque accumulate in the gum
crevice that surrounds a tooth. The more bacteria that accumulates,
the greater the probability that the body's defense will be
overwhelmed and unable to manage that bacteria in a healthy way;
hence, swelling and bleeding results.
Although gingivitis is treatable and its symptoms are
usually reversible, more severe forms of periodontal disease can
result in permanent loss of gum tissue or of the bone that supports
the teeth. Loss of gum or bone at a young age can lead to serious
trouble. The younger a child has a problem the worse the prognosis
because there are so many more years for problems to occur. Left
untreated, it becomes difficult to keep the teeth for a lifetime.
In most cases, childhood gum disease can be prevented
using the same techniques recommended for adults -- proper brushing
and flossing and periodic preventive dental check-ups that include
professional cleanings and examinations for signs of disease. It is
important for parents to realize that children need to get their teeth
cleaned even if they don't look like they need it. Just because you
can't see plaque -- it's an invisible film of bacteria -- doesn't mean
it's not there. A thorough professional cleaning goes a long way to
help keep gums healthy.
At home, parents can do a great deal to protect their
children from gum disease by helping with their cleanings and, as the
children grow, by teaching proper techniques recommended by a
pediatric dentist for brushing and flossing.
And remember, plaque accumulates on gum pads as well
as on teeth. It's never too early to get babies used to dental care by
gently wiping the gums with a clean cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush
even before the first tooth erupts into the mouth. Keep those gums in
the pink.
Dr. Eric Lebowitz, a Pinecrest resident for more 20
years, is a pediatric dentist in private practice in Kendall. He has
offices at Tooth Fairy-Land near Baptist Hospital. Questions about
this topic and others may be directed to Dr. Lebowitz' attention by
calling (305) 279-4312.
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