Around 1 in 2 children and adolescents are affected by Gingivitis.
Can Children Get Gum Disease?
Yes, children can develop gum disease, although it is often milder than the periodontal disease seen in adults. Early gum inflammation can cause red, swollen or bleeding gums, so spotting these changes early gives parents the opportunity to address the problem before it becomes more serious.
What Causes Gum Disease In Children?
Poor brushing can allow plaque to build up around the teeth and gums, which may lead to inflammation and gingivitis. In some children, gum problems can also be linked to genetics, certain medical conditions or changes in the mouth as adult teeth develop.
What Are Gum Disease Symptoms In Children?
There are a few signs parents can look out for, including:
- Red gums in children
- Swollen gums in children
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Tender or sensitive gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
- Plaque building up around the gumline
- Loose teeth in more severe cases
Where Can I Find A Children's Periodontist Near Me?
If your child needs specialist care for their gums, The Perio Centre offers expert periodontal treatment at 107 Harley Street, London, W1G 6AL. Our central Harley Street practice is easy to reach by public transport, with several tube stations and bus routes less than a 10 minute walk away, making visits as straightforward as possible for families.
With convenient parking also available nearby and easy transport links, getting to The Perio Centre with your child is simple and stress free! If you have any concerns about your child’s gums or would like to arrange an appointment, our friendly team will be happy to help and find a suitable time for you!
Why Visit The Perio Centre?
When Should A Child See A Periodontist?
A child may benefit from seeing a periodontist if their gums are frequently swollen, sore or bleeding, particularly if these problems continue despite good brushing. A referral may also be recommended if there are signs of gum recession, unusual changes around the teeth or a family history of gum disease.
Getting specialist advice early on can help to identify the cause and prevent a small concern from developing into something more serious. If you are worried about your child’s gums, it is always worth having them checked!
Can Children Have Receding Gums?
Yes, although receding gums in children are not considered normal and should be checked by a dental professional. It can sometimes be caused by vigorous brushing, an unusual bite or the position of a developing tooth, but there can be other underlying reasons too.
Having the gums assessed early can help protect the teeth and prevent the problem from progressing. Our specialist periodontist Dr Simon Stern can assess the gums carefully and recommend the most appropriate treatment if needed.
How To Treat Gum Pain In Children
01. Find The Cause
Gum pain is a sign that something may need attention, rather than something to simply put up with. A dentist or periodontist can look at your child’s gums and teeth to understand what is causing the discomfort.
02. Treat The Problem
Treatment will depend on what is behind the pain. This could mean improving brushing and cleaning around the gums, treating inflammation or providing more specialised periodontal care if necessary.
03. Keep Their Gums Healthy
Once the pain has settled, good daily brushing and regular visits can help to keep your child’s gums healthy. Continuing to pay attention to their gum health can help spot any changes early and ensure they receive the right care if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bleeding Gums In Children A Cause For Concern?
Bleeding gums should not be ignored, particularly if they bleed regularly when your child brushes their teeth. It can be a sign of inflammation caused by plaque, although there are other possible causes, so it is worth having persistent bleeding checked.
Can Poor Brushing Cause Gum Disease In Children?
Yes, brushing that does not properly remove plaque can allow it to collect around the gumline and cause irritation and inflammation. Helping your child develop good brushing habits from an early age is one of the simplest ways to support healthy gums.
How Can Parents Prevent Gum Disease In Children?
Good brushing, cleaning between the teeth where appropriate and regular dental check ups all play an important part in keeping children’s gums healthy. It is also helpful for parents to look out for changes such as bleeding, swelling or persistent bad breath rather than waiting for a problem to become uncomfortable.
How Is Gum Disease Treated In Children?
Treatment depends on what is causing the gum problem and how advanced it is. For some children, improving their oral hygiene may be enough, while others may need a closer assessment and specialist periodontal treatment.
Can A Periodontist Help With Bleeding Gums In Children?
Yes, a periodontist can assess bleeding gums and look beyond the obvious symptoms to understand what may be causing them. This can be particularly helpful when bleeding continues despite good brushing or when there are other changes to the gums.
At What Age Can A Child See A Periodontist?
There is no set age at which a child can see a periodontist. If there is a concern about their gums, teeth or developing mouth, our expert periodontist Dr Simon Stern can assess them and advise whether specialist care would be beneficial.
Why Are My Child’s Gums Swollen?
Swollen gums in children can happen for several reasons, including plaque build up, inflammation, changes as teeth come through or irritation from brushing. If the swelling does not settle or is accompanied by bleeding, soreness or other changes, it is a good idea to have it checked.
Should A Child See A Periodontist Before Braces?
Not every child needs to see a periodontist before having braces, but checking the health of the gums can be useful before orthodontic treatment begins. If there are existing signs of inflammation or gum problems, addressing these first can help create a healthier foundation for treatment.
Is The Perio Centre Child Friendly?
Yes, The Perio Centre welcomes children who need specialist advice or treatment for their gums. We understand that visiting a specialist can feel unfamiliar for a child, so our approach is friendly, reassuring and centred around making them feel comfortable.
Can The Perio Centre Help Children Who Are Nervous About Dental Treatment?
Yes, we understand that some children can feel anxious about dental appointments, particularly when they are seeing a specialist for the first time. Our team takes time to explain what is happening in a calm and reassuring way, helping children and their parents feel more at ease.