Puberty gingivitis is the most preventable type of gingivitis in children. This oral disease is very similar to that in adults, with a few differences.
Puberty gingivitis is very common in teens, but it is often ignored. However, without intervention, it may progress to more serious adult periodontal diseases as your child gets older.]
What causes puberty gingivitis?
Puberty gingivitis is most common in preadolescent boys and girls between the ages of 11 and 13. It is typically the result of a combination of elevated hormone levels, which increase the response of gingival tissues to accumulated dental plaque, and poor oral hygiene habits.
Symptoms
Symptoms of puberty gingivitis are most commonly bleeding and inflammation of the gums. The gum tissue may also become swollen, red, and less firm to the touch.
Treatment
You will probably not be too surprised to learn that the best treatment for puberty gingivitis is prevention!
As your child gets older, he or she may be less inclined to listen to mom and dad about good oral hygiene practices. However, it’s important to remain firm on this theme to prevent gum disease from developing.
Make sure your teen is brushing thoroughly for 2 full minutes at least twice a day, and flossing carefully at least once a day.
If your child has already developed gingivitis, it’s best to get it under control as soon as possible, by way of periodontal therapy in the form of scaling and root planing. Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine can be used to control the infection as well.