How to Treat Your Child’s Gum Infection
Many parents may not be aware that their child’s gum infection could lead to other health problems. In some cases, the infection may even cause tooth loss. It is important for parents to know about these potential problems if they suspect a gum infection. By doing so, they can help ensure their child’s oral health and wellbeing.
In this post, we will explain how to treat a gum infection in your child. Keep in mind that if the infection is severe, or does not improve with treatment, you should consult your pediatrician.
Gum Disease Symptoms
Gum disease can arise in various ways, and your child may be showing signs of it. Among them are:
- Swollen, bright red gums
- Bleeding after flossing
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pus between gums and teeth
Gum Infection Treatments
You should see a pediatric dentist as soon as possible if you notice a gum infection. There is a wide range of gum disease treatment options available to you once you’ve been diagnosed with a gum infection, depending on the severity of the infection.
Professional dental cleanings
If your dentist notices signs of gum disease, they may recommend a more frequent dental appointment for professional cleanings. Active gum disease cannot be treated with deep dental cleanings. Preventative measures can help you avoid its growth, but they’re not a substitute for treatment.
Dental plaque and tartar (plaque buildup hardens on the tooth surface and can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist) are removed from all of your teeth’s gums and above and below the gum line during a routine checkup.
Scaling and root planing
Scaling and root planing are non-surgical techniques that remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line and smoothing down rough regions on the base of the tooth. This is done under local anesthesia (planing).
Antibiotic treatments
Antibiotics can be used alone or in combination with surgery and other therapies to diminish or temporarily remove the bacteria associated with gum disease or to suppress the breakdown of the tooth’s attachment to the bone. Depending on the severity of the infection, your pediatric dentist may choose to provide an antibiotic tablet or injection straight into the area.
Preventing Gum Infection
Keeping your child’s gums healthy and free of infection is simple if you practice an excellent oral hygiene routine every day. Maintaining a healthy mouth and gums is easier if you follow these suggestions.
Brush your child’s teeth twice a day
Brush your child’s teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. This anti-gingivitis toothpaste gently neutralizes the bacteria surrounding the gum line to get healthier gums.
Floss your child’s teeth regularly
Remove food particles that create plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to inflamed gums, by brushing between every tooth.
Use an anti-gingivitis mouthwash
Using a mouthwash that can eliminate the bacteria in plaque is another option. Many options are available, and some have many benefits (such as whitening, strengthening enamel, or avoiding cavities).
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning
Tartar accumulation that you can’t get rid of on your own will be removed using this procedure. Accumulation of plaque on and around tartar in difficult-to-clean locations can wreak havoc on your gums.
Your pediatric dentist may require antibiotics or surgery if the gum disease has progressed, but this is unlikely. As a result, starting an oral hygiene regimen with your child as soon as possible, from infancy to adolescence, is critical. When you put in the time and effort, you’ll see results.
Contact Junior Smiles of Stafford to learn more about gum infection in children
It’s natural to be concerned about your child’s dental health. However, if you discover any signs of gum infection, you should immediately contact the most reputable pediatric dentist. We offer the skills and equipment necessary to make your child’s dental appointments joyful and stress-free.
Why Choose Junior Smiles of Stafford?
Our Stafford, VA team is well-versed in working with clients of various ages and backgrounds. They’ll take the time to get to know you and your family’s requirements, and they’ll work with you to design a treatment plan that suits your schedule. Sealants and fluoride treatments are just two of the many preventative care options we provide to keep your mouth healthy.
About Us
Visiting Junior Smiles of Stafford means you’re in good hands when it comes to receiving high-quality care. Your child’s dental health improves with each visit, ensuring a brighter smile for years to come. We adhere to the ADA and AAPD’s guidelines for best practices.
Where Are We Located?
Phone: (540) 699-2441
Fax: (540) 699-2464
Email: info@juniorsmilesofstafford.com
Monday and Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesdays and Thursdays: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fridays and Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (By appointment only)
How to Book Your Kids First Appointment at Junior Smiles of Stafford
Fill out the form on our website. Within 24 hours, a member of our team will get back to you.