Gum disease is one of those things that can strike at any age. It’s not just reserved for adults. That’s why taking care of your gums is so important when you are young. And if you are the parent of a young child or teen, now is a great time to teach your child what to do to give them healthy gums and healthy smiles.

In this article, we’ll tell you why healthy gums are so important to your child’s overall health. And, we’ll give you some tips on how to make caring for your gums easier than ever. 

Why gum health matters.

Did you know that about 50% of kids have some form of periodontal disease? Not only that, but the statistics get even higher in the teen years—increasing to 66%. Pretty alarming, no? And the unfortunate thing here is that gum disease is preventable. This means a happier, healthier smile without the pain and discomfort that can come with periodontal disease.

But maintaining good gum health is not just about preventing discomfort; it plays a big role in your child’s overall health. Gum disease can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even tooth loss if left untreated. What’s more, the bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting other areas of the body. 

Starting healthy dental habits early is the best way to help your child avoid these issues. Teaching kids and teens how to care for their gums now sets them up for a lifetime of better oral health, so it’s important to make gum care a regular part of their routine.

So, just how do you prioritize gum care? Read on for some tips that are easier than you might realize.

Daily Gum Care Routine 

Taking care of your gums starts at home. It’s as easy as prioritizing a brushing and flossing routine every day. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t stress the need for flossing—though it can be a bit tricky until you get used to it, flossing can go a long way in preventing gum disease.

Here’s what to do every day to keep those gums healthy and happy.

• Make sure they brush their teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Encourage daily flossing to clean between their teeth
• Have them rinse with water after meals
• Provide a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks
• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings

Diet and Gum Health

While it’s not exactly true that we are what we eat, the truth is that what our kids eat can be a big contributor to their oral health. It just so happens that some foods aid in the development of healthy gums, and some will work against you.

But here’s the great news—these foods we’re about to recommend aren’t just good for your kid’s teeth and gums—they’re good for their overall health. Here’s what we suggest you add to their plates and snack boxes whenever possible.

• Crunchy fruits like apples and pears
• Leafy greens like spinach and kale
• Vegetables like carrots and celery
• Dairy products like yogurt and cheese
• Plenty of water throughout the day

Limiting sugary snacks and drinks is also important for gum health. Sugar can feed harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to plaque buildup and gum problems. Encourage healthier alternatives and save sugary treats for special occasions to help keep your child’s gums in better shape.

Spotting Early Signs of Gum Disease

Another important part of gum disease prevention is knowing what to look for in the first place. The more you are in the know, the more likely you will be to pick up on the signs of trouble before your child’s next dental visit. 

Here’s what to pay attention to:

• Red or swollen gums
• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums that seem to pull away from the teeth
• Unexplained sensitivity to hot or cold foods

If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s a good idea to reach out to your dentist. Early detection can help prevent gum disease from worsening, and your dentist can offer treatments or advice to get your child’s gums back on track.

Help your child prioritize healthy gums for a happy smile. 

At Sheppard Family Dental Care, our goal is to help your child keep their teeth and gums happy and healthy throughout their lifetime. And when you visit the best dentist in Lawton, you’ll see that we take a unique approach to kids’ dentistry. Not only will we do all that routine stuff to keep your kids smile the best we can be, we’ll take some extra time to teach your child what they need to know as part of our approach to restorative dentistry.

If your child has bleeding gums, or you think they need a bit of extra help learning how to care for their gums, your Lawton family dentistry team is here to help. Request an appointment with Sheppard Family Dental Care today and make healthy gums and teeth your child’s top priority.