Periodontal Disease in Adolescents

Drs. LaRee Johnson, Clark Morris, Gentry Byrd, Dr. Amanda Allen, and our team at Carolina Pediatric Dentistry know that periodontal disease isn't something exclusive to adults. It can affect adolescents as well. Gingivitis, which is a milder form of periodontitis, is a form of periodontal disease, and a warning that more serious problems may arise. Untreated gingivitis can develop into full-blown periodontitis.

The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) explains that research proves that younger people may develop more severe forms of gingivitis. Gingivitis is linked to periodontal disease. Children and adolescents who have type 1 diabetes or immune deficiencies are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease.

Parents may suspect that their adolescent has chronic gingivitis if he or she shows or complains of symptoms such as redness, swelling, or bleeding gums. Early treatment may prevent gingivitis from developing into a more severe form of periodontal disease

Once called thought only to affect adults, periodontitis can occur in people in their early teenage years, and progress throughout their teens. One of its distinguishing characteristics is bone loss following chronic inflammation of the gingiva. This can be due to oral hygiene concerns and also genetics.

In more severe periodontal disease, the overall gum structure may change. The severity of these changes may alter gum strength enough to loosen teeth, or even worse, cause them to fall out.

The success of any treatment is largely contingent on early diagnosis. Drs. LaRee Johnson, Clark Morris, Gentry Byrd, and Anne Baker should conduct a thorough periodontal exam as part of an adolescent’s twice-yearly complete dental examinations.

The mouth is full of bacteria. Some of it is necessary for food digestion. Diseases are more likely to develop if bacteria travel to open places in the mouth, such as exposed gum pockets or cavities. Proper dental hygiene is essential for a healthy mouth, and a healthy mouth offers greater protection against painful dental diseases.

Be sure every member of your family has a complete dental exam and cleaning twice a year, and contact Drs. LaRee Johnson, Clark Morris, Gentry Byrd, Anne Baker, and Amanda Allen when you or your young kids or adolescents complain of pain, sensitivity, or other oral problems. Early detection at our Raleigh and Wakefield office leads to treatment of oral problems and prevents them from turning into serious periodontal disease and potentially irreversible problems.

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