Periodontal disease has been proven to possibly increase more in adolescence than at any other point in a person’s life. This is because teenagers start to lack oral hygiene and have a decrease in motivation to practice good dental care. It also goes to show that children who practice healthy dental protocol such as routine brushing and flossing, will continue it into their adolescence and adulthood.
When it comes to periodontal disease, it is important to receive an early diagnosis in order to have successful treatment. This is why it is imperative for children to undergo a periodontal examination as a part of their routine dental appointments. If your child starts developing an advanced form of periodontal disease, however, the could indicate an early sign of systemic disease. A medical evaluation should be administered to children who show severe periodontitis.
It is important to consider a crucial step when it comes to fighting against periodontal disease and that is to sustain good oral hygiene with your children early on. Once your child is a year old, you can use toothpaste when he or she brushes their teeth. A pea-sized portion is advised to put on the brush so your child won’t ingest it. It is also important to start implementing flossing as a part of their oral health habits and once their gaps start to fill in with more teeth.
Make sure to look for signs of periodontal disease by examining your child’s mouth. Look for any of the following:
If you notice that your child has poor oral health habits, don’t let them continue. Change these habits while they are still young so they may naturally implement them in their routine by the time they are adults. This is why it is important to set a good example for your children so they may follow your lead and take on the same dental habits as you. When it comes to good oral hygiene, there’s a long-lasting and beautiful smile that comes along with it.
For more information about adolescence and oral care, call one of our convenient office locations to schedule an appointment for your child with our pediatric dentists:
5204 Dawes Ave, Alexandria, VA 22311 Phone: 703-931-4400
46175 Westlake Drive Suite 430, Sterling, VA 20165 Phone: 703-774-0014
10220 River Road, Suite 305, Potomac, MD 20854 Phone: 301-299-4400
15020 Shady Grove Road, Suite 360, Rockville, MD 20850 Phone: 301-762-2236
We can’t wait to meet you! Contact one of our five convenient locations around the DC area.
