Watch Out for These 3 Common Signs of Childhood Gingivitis

It can be a challenge to keep your child's teeth and gums healthy, but it's one of the most important things you can do for them. One of the most common dental issues faced by both adults and children is gingivitis. This is the first stage of periodontal disease. It is usually quite mild and easy to ignore, but if allowed to progress it can lead to permanent damage. Unfortunately, the fact it's easy to ignore often means children won't let you know anything might be wrong, so parents may find it difficult to tell if their child has developed gingivitis.

That said, there are some common signs of gingivitis you should watch out for. Here are just three. 

1. Bleeding Gums

In many cases, the earliest sign of gingivitis will be gums that bleed when you brush, floss, or simply when you apply pressure. This is one reason why it can be worth watching younger children while they brush – you'll be able to take note of any signs of redness when they spit or take a look at their gums periodically after they brush. You can also check a child's toothbrush at night. This is a great way to ensure they are actually brushing their teeth, and you can also watch out for any slight redness of the bristles that could indicate bleeding.

2. Bad Breath

Bad breath is never nice, and it can be a problem that's just as embarrassing for kids as it is for adults. However, it can also be a handy warning sign that something is wrong with your child's teeth or gums, especially if bad breath remains even after they have brushed. If you notice your child's breath is unpleasant despite regular brushing, make sure you schedule a trip to the dentist as soon as possible. This is a common symptom of gingivitis, as well as other common dental issues.

3. Tender Gums

People with gingivitis usually find their gums becoming tender to the touch, so you should take your child to the dentist if this is something they mention, especially if the gums appear bright red or purple. Of course, discomfort might not be something your child is willing to mention, especially if a trip to the dentist is exactly what they fear. As such, you should pay attention to any signs of discomfort. For example, you may notice your child seems to be chewing more slowly or carefully, or they may avoid eating tougher foods.

Reach out to a dentistry clinic near you for more information.

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