Puberty gingivitis is a relatively easily preventable type of gingivitis in children. This oral disease is very similar to that in adults.
Puberty gingivitis is a very common condition in teens, but it is often ignored. Without intervention, it may progress to more serious adult periodontal diseases as your child grows up.
What causes puberty gingivitis?
Puberty gingivitis is most common in preadolescent girls and boys between the ages of 11 and 13. It usually results from a combination of the elevated hormone levels during puberty, which increase the response of gingival tissues to accumulated dental plaque, and poor oral hygiene habits.
Symptoms
The symptoms of puberty gingivitis are usually bleeding and inflamed gums. The gum tissue may also become swollen, red, and less firm to the touch.
Treatment
It probably won't surprise you to learn that the best "treatment" for puberty gingivitis is actually prevention!
As your child gets older, he or she may be less inclined to listen to mom and dad about maintaining good oral health. However, it’s important to remain firm on this theme to prevent gum disease from taking hold.
Make sure your teen brushes his or her teeth thoroughly for 2 full minutes at least twice a day, and flosses carefully at least once a day.
If your child has already developed gingivitis, it's imperative to get it under control as soon as possible, by way of periodontal therapy at your dentist's office. Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine can be used to control the infection as well.