How Kids Dentists Can Reverse Gingivitis

A kids dentist can prevent, treat, and reverse gum disease. Through comprehensive dental treatments, they can address the bacterial buildup that contributes to the earliest stage of gum disease, also known as gingivitis. Comprehensive gingivitis treatments may involve deep dental cleanings, enhanced oral hygiene, and other approaches. The goal is to effectively treat and reverse the condition as soon as possible to preserve the child’s oral health and development.

Understanding gingivitis in children

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, which results from plaque and tartar accumulation on the teeth and gums. The primary symptoms are red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Typically, the gums may experience some pain during a professional cleaning or nightly oral hygiene.

However, treatment remains necessary. Untreated gingivitis can progress to more serious and irreversible forms of gum disease, such as periodontitis, which can have long-term effects on a child’s oral health. Untreated gum disease can also result in prematurely lost teeth, impacted teeth, smile misalignment (malocclusions), and other interruptions to smile and jaw development.

Diagnosing gingivitis

A kids dentist or pediatric dentist can diagnose gingivitis during a six-month dental checkup and cleaning. After the dental hygienist has scaled away any plaque and tartar buildup, the dentist can examine the patient’s gum line and any exposed tooth roots. They will also check the depth of the gum pockets around the teeth to diagnose gingivitis. Next, the kids dentist will look for redness, swelling, and bleeding in the gums. They may recommend dental X-rays — which are safe for children per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — to ensure that no further gum or bone damage has occurred.

How a kids dentist treats gingivitis

There are three main components of gingivitis treatment from a kids dentist or pediatric dentist.

Deep cleanings

After diagnosing gingivitis, the kids dentist will likely recommend a deep dental cleaning called scaling and root planing. They will clean carefully around the gum line and smooth the tooth root surfaces so the gums can reattach easily.

Improved oral hygiene

Becoming consistent with good brushing and flossing techniques helps remove plaque and reduce gum inflammation. A kids dentist may also recommend using an antibacterial mouthwash to further reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Ensuring dental restorations are in good shape

Old or damaged dental fillings and crowns can trap food particles and bacteria, contributing to gingivitis. As part of gingivitis treatment, a kids dentist will examine and, if needed, repair these restorations to ensure they fit well and are maintained properly.

Preventing gingivitis from returning

Gingivitis can return even if a pediatric dentist is initially successful in reversing it. To ensure long-term success, remain diligent with oral care. This includes returning to the kids dentist every six months so the child can receive a professional dental cleaning and checkup. In addition, work to help the child maintain the habit of flossing to help the gums recover from and stay free of swelling, tenderness, and bleeding. Keep consistent with twice-daily brushing, as well. Parents may consider making mouthwash and fluoridated toothpaste mainstays of their children’s long-term oral care.