When it comes to oral health, gum care for children is likely not the first thing that comes to mind. Even though the teeth are essential, it is not a good idea to overlook the gums.
Not all people believe that gum health is important for children. Here are a few facts about gum care and the importance of keeping a child's gums healthy starting at an early age.
The most important thing to teach kids about gum care is that taking care of the gums keeps them strong and healthy. Besides gum disease, poor hygiene leads to more sensitive gums, meaning it can be difficult to brush, floss, and even eat food without feeling pain. The best way for kids to avoid unnecessary visits to the dentist is for them to develop good gum care habits early on in life.
Another reason gum care for children is necessary is that no one is immune to gum disease. If kids do not develop a good oral health routine early in life, they could spend much of their time dealing with serious issues with their gums. Even mild gum disease is unpleasant and can require treatment from the dentist. If left unchecked, it can require extensive treatment and even surgery to repair the damage.
Severe gum disease can affect the gum line and even eat into the tissue beneath gums and erode the bone, causing significant problems, including being able to speak and eat normally. It can even require major reconstructive surgery involving skin and tissue grafts and bone grafts just to rebuild the gums due to all the damage. It is also important to note that even if the damage is repaired, it does not stop gum disease from coming back, so a good gum care routine is paramount.
If caregivers are not sure how important gum care for children is, it might help to know that without the gums, the teeth would be exposed to damage and infection and could even fall out of the mouth. The gums help protect the teeth at the point where the visible tooth meets the gum. The portion of the tooth underneath the gum line contains the root system for the tooth. If the gums start to recede, there is the potential for the roots of the teeth and the nerves to be exposed. Not only is this incredibly painful when trying to eat or drink, but the risk of tooth decay and infection also increases.
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If the roots of the teeth are compromised, there is a good chance that teeth may need to be extracted, especially if a root canal or other treatments are not enough to save them from the damage done. Therefore, gum care is essential. Speak with your child's dentist to learn more.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
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