Many people do not realize that periodontal disease is not exclusive to adults. It can also affect adolescents. It is important to note that gingivitis, a milder form of periodontitis, is a sign that more serious problems may arise in the future. Periodontitis can develop if gingivitis is left untreated.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), younger people are more likely to develop severe gingivitis. There is a link between gingivitis and periodontal disease. Periodontitis is more likely to affect children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes or immune deficiencies.
Children and adolescents suffer from three types of periodontal diseases.
Chronic gingivitis
An adolescent who exhibits or complains of symptoms such as redness, swelling, or bleeding gums may have chronic gingivitis. Early treatment can prevent gingivitis from developing into a more severe form of periodontal disease.
Aggressive and/or chronic periodontitis
Because periodontitis can occur in teens as early as their early teenage years and progress throughout their teens, the term chronic periodontitis replaces the term adult periodontitis. A chronic and aggressive form of periodontitis primarily affects the incisors and first molars. Bone loss is one of its distinctive characteristics. On examination, patients who have this form of the disease have minimal dental plaque.
Periodontal disease that is chronic and aggressive in nature.
This more severe form of periodontal disease has many of the same characteristics as the chronic and aggressive types. Gum inflammation and the accumulation of plaque and calculus are common symptoms.
There may be a change in the overall gum structure in both forms of more severe periodontal disease. As a result of these changes, teeth may become loose or even fall out, depending on the severity of the changes.
Any treatment’s success depends heavily on early diagnosis. Periodontal examinations should be conducted twice a year as part of an adolescent’s complete dental examination.
Mouths are full of bacteria. It is necessary for food digestion in some cases. In areas where bacteria can travel, such as exposed gum pockets or cavities, diseases are more likely to develop. When dental hygiene is practiced properly, healthy mouths offer greater protection against painful dental diseases.
Every family member should have a dental exam and cleaning twice a year, and you should consult your doctor if you are experiencing pain, sensitivity, or other oral issues. The early detection and treatment of oral problems at our periodontist office prevents them from developing into serious periodontal disease or irreversible damage.
