Why Gingivitis Is Especially Harmful To Children

Many parents have the mistaken belief that it doesn’t really matter if their children get a cavity or have other “minor” oral health issues when they are young because they will simply lose their baby teeth. They think that they don’t need to be concerned with oral hygiene until the permanent teeth come in. This belief could not be farther from reality! The fact is that the health of your child’s baby teeth and young gums will be an indicator of their oral health in adulthood.

Gum disease is a problematic oral inflammation that can lead to dire repercussions. Most children do not suffer from severe periodontal disease, but gingivitis is common in children.

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, a severe and irreversible gum disease that can destroy a person’s oral health. Because gingivitis is the first stage of this disease, it should always be taken seriously.

Poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of gingivitis in children. Children do not naturally brush their teeth well, and they will undoubtedly go to bed without brushing their teeth if allowed to do so. Children must be taught proper oral hygiene! The best teacher for this is a parent who demonstrates how to floss and brush properly. When children see their parents making oral health a priority, they will intuitively make the same decision.

Let’s go back to how gingivitis is especially harmful in children. Oral health is closely tied to the health of the entire body. Making sure that you promote oral health in your children can not only ensure that they have great smiles, but it can help protect them from the harmful effects of poor oral health as well. If the teeth and gums are vulnerable when they are young, this can set the stage for oral health issues when the permanent teeth erupt.

Helping your children develop healthy oral health habits while they are young will promote a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Gingivitis is a serious concern among children because it can lead to many other severe issues. Start encouraging healthy habits in your children today, and your children will reap the benefits for the rest of their lives.