What pediatric periodontal care services are available for my child?
If your child has been diagnosed with periodontal disease, regardless of stage, it may be a good idea to talk to the team of dentists at South OC Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics about your concerns regarding the most appropriate treatment solutions. Our dentists can evaluate your child to get a proper diagnosis and then discuss possible pediatric gum disease and gingivitis treatments that can bring your child’s smile back to health!
What is done for patients with gingivitis?
Gingivitis is best described as the earliest stage of gum disease. It is often noticeable due to the development of red, swollen gums. Children may also notice blood when they brush or floss their teeth. At this point, it is critical to bring your child into the office of South OC Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics to get a definitive diagnosis and discuss possible treatment options. In most situations, children will benefit from a deep dental cleaning and further education on caring for their smiles at home.
What is done for periodontitis?
For children with a diagnosis of periodontitis, further steps are needed to control the infection. Periodontitis cannot be cured but can be managed with the help of an experienced dental provider. This often requires deeper cleaning services such as scaling and root planing to remove tartar, plaque, and bacteria from well below the gum line along the tooth roots. Children may also be given oral antibiotic medications, or our team may apply antibiotics directly to the gums to treat the infection. Once controlled, these children may need to come in more often for cleanings, perhaps every three to four months instead of every six.
Schedule a visit at South OC Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics today!
Call (949) 581 5800 to schedule an appointment with Drs. John De Lorme, or Sam Wu if you suspect your child has periodontal disease or even tooth decay. We can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss treatment options at our practice, conveniently located at 26302 La Paz Road, Suite #114, in Mission Viejo, CA. Our office serves patients in the surrounding cities of Rancho Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, and Ladera Ranch, CA.
Periodontal Care FAQs
Can children develop gum disease?
While gum disease is more common in adults, children can also develop it, especially if they have poor oral hygiene or certain health conditions. The earliest stage, gingivitis, causes red, swollen gums that may bleed when brushing. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious periodontal issues. Regular dental checkups, brushing, and flossing help prevent gum disease and keep your child’s gums healthy.
What are signs of gum disease in kids?
Common signs include red, swollen, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and sensitivity while eating. If your child complains of discomfort or you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. De Lorme. Early treatment can prevent minor gum issues from becoming more serious periodontal disease, which can eventually affect the stability of their teeth.
How can I help my child maintain healthy gums?
Encourage good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day. Make sure they visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. A healthy diet low in sugary snacks and drinks also supports gum health. If your child has braces, extra care is needed to clean around brackets and wires to prevent plaque buildup near the gums.
How does orthodontic treatment affect gum health?
Braces and other orthodontic appliances can make it harder to clean teeth properly, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and gum inflammation. If plaque isn’t removed, it can lead to gingivitis. Dr. De Lorme will provide special instructions for maintaining gum health during orthodontic treatment, including using floss threaders, water flossers, or interdental brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Can thumb sucking or pacifier use affect my child’s gums?
Yes, prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can put pressure on the gums and affect the alignment of teeth. This can lead to gum recession or contribute to orthodontic issues that impact gum health. If your child has a strong thumb sucking habit beyond age three, Dr. De Lorme can guide gentle ways to break the habit to prevent long-term oral health concerns.
What professional treatments help with pediatric gum issues?
For mild gingivitis, a professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene routine may be enough to reverse the condition. If gum disease progresses, dentists may perform deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and bacteria beneath the gumline. Dr. De Lorme will assess your child’s gum health and recommend the best treatment to restore and maintain healthy gums.
Can diet impact my child’s gum health?
Absolutely! A vitamin C, calcium, and fiber-rich diet helps support healthy gums. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots help clean teeth and massage gums naturally. Limiting sugary snacks and acidic drinks reduces plaque buildup, which can lead to gum inflammation. Encouraging water over juice and soda also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can harm gum tissue.
