Why You Should Have Routine Gum Care for Children

Providing proper gum care for children can ensure your child's general health. Many people think that oral health is only about teeth. However, gums are also included in this field. Dentists stress that gums are as important as teeth. This tissue plays an essential role in a child's general health. Read on to find out why good gum care for children should be a routine.

Provides dental support

Healthy primary or permanent teeth must have stable support, which is where gums and jawbones come in. Gums surround each tooth. These soft tissues seal the entire tooth, shielding the sensitive parts of the tooth that do not have an enamel layer.

Healthy gums keep each tooth from wiggling. These soft tissues block food particles, cold air, and bacteria from touching the roots of the teeth. Keeping gums intact requires routine gum care for children. Regular gum care can prevent bacteria from damaging the gums, teeth, and jawbones.

Causes of receding gums in kids

This condition is when the gum tissue pulls back. It results in longer-looking teeth, leaving the dental roots unprotected. Most parents believe that only adults can suffer from gum recession, but it can also happen to children. Dentists know how harmful this condition can be to a child. That is why routine gum care for children is necessary. Below are the common causes of receding gums in children:

• Teeth grinding or bruxism is a reason for practicing good gum care. Bruxism is a condition that results from clenching and grinding the teeth. The pressure from this activity makes the gums pull away.
• Teeth with irregular locations can protrude through the gums, stretching and lifting the gum tissue. Protruding teeth make the child susceptible to bacteria and plaque. It also exposes sensitive dental roots.
• Genetics can also cause gum recession. Children born with disproportionate gum and teeth distribution can experience tooth sensitivity and gum disease. That is why gum care for children must start earlier than you may think.
• Intense brushing can cause receding gums as well. Over time, the gum tissue pulls back. The dentist will recommend gum care for children right away.

Treating gum recession in kids

Swollen gums, bad breath, and loose teeth are common signs of receding gums in children. The dentist will recommend routine gum care for children to correct the condition. This type of care aims to bring back stable support from the surrounding gum tissue. Below are the common gum recession treatments for kids:

• Braces can correct irregularly positioned teeth. Bite expanders give the developing teeth enough room to develop. Braces can work with the expanders to shift the teeth into their proper positions.
• Good dental hygiene is part of routine gum care for children. Good hygiene can prevent future loss of gum tissue, especially if the child shows signs of gingivitis. Drinking milk, brushing, flossing, eating nutritious foods, and limiting sugar intake are parts of this type of care.
• A night guard can protect teeth from rubbing against each other.
• Extracting irregularly shaped teeth can remove the obstruction in the gums, allowing the gums to heal and develop normally.