Gum disease is caused by bacteria. The technical term for this condition is periodontal disease and it impacts a significant number of people at all ages. When a bacterial infection develops, it can result in gums that are infected and inflamed. It can also impact the surrounding ligaments and bones. As a result of these issues, gum disease can lead to the loss of teeth. This is one of many reason why a bacterial infection should be identified and treated as soon as possible. Left untreated, it can spread even further.

The impact of gum disease on the body can be tremendous and this is something that the medical community understands more than they did in the past. For instance, it can result in serious health issues, such as diabetes, stroke and heart disease. When a person has gum disease, it can also worsen other medical conditions that exist, partly because there is an infection in the body that has not been addressed or contained.

Why Lifestyle Choices Matter

There are a lot of different risk factors for gum disease and one of them is genetics. A top risk factor is lifestyle, especially when it comes to the types of foods that are consumed. To reduce the likelihood of developing gum disease, it’s important to avoid foods that can contribute to the problem. Two of the most common ingredients that lead to gum disease is sugar and starch. The over-consumption of sugar or starch can exacerbate oral health issues.

Another risk factor for gum disease is poor oral hygiene. Sometimes parents don’t truly understand the importance of dental care when it comes to children, although they are just as susceptible to gum disease as adults. To mitigate the issue, parents should ensure their kids brush and floss regularly.

How to Recognize Gum Disease

Figuring out if your kid has gum disease isn’t always easy, which is why it’s important to visit a pediatric dentist. However, there are signs when a child has gum disease and they are the same signs that exist for adults. This includes red, swollen and bleeding gums that can worsen when brush or flossing. There’s also a possibility of developing bad breath and having gums that are separated from the teeth. It’s important to see a dentist long before these symptoms develop.

Benefits of Early Oral Hygiene

Many of the benefits associated with good oral hygiene are obvious, which is why it’s important to get kids use to taking care of their teeth. Prior to your child’s teeth growing in, it’s important to keep their gums healthy. This includes cleaning them with damp gauze or a soft washcloth. This will clean off any residue from each meal. When the first tooth sprouts, you’ll need to make an appointment to see a pediatric dentist. A great benefit of seeing a professional is learning what’s necessary to make sure your kid’s teeth are in great shape for years to come.

Importance of Visits to you child’s Pediatric Dentist

Good dental hygiene is something that requires a long-term effort. In order for kids to grow accustomed to cleaning their teeth, it should be a habit that’s intentionally developed. This requires a combination of brushing, flossing and visiting a qualified Houston Pediatric Dentist. Notably, all of these activities can prevent your child from developing a fear of dentists. Given the potential health issues associated with not having good oral hygiene, every effort should be taken to make sure your kid feels comfortable getting their teeth cleaned and keeping them clean.