What is puberty gingivitis?

Puberty gingivitis is a preventable form of gingivitis that can develop in children during puberty. Here, our dentists at Toothworks Masonville Place Dental explain what causes it, and how to prevent it.

Puberty gingivitis is a very common but not very well-known condition in preteens and teenagers. As with any form of gingivitis, it may progress to more serious periodontal disease if it is not identified and treated early on.

What causes puberty gingivitis?

Puberty gingivitis is most common in preadolescent boys and girls who are between the ages of 11 and 13.

During these years, kids often begin to assert a little more independence, and their dietary and oral hygiene habits can go downhill because of reduced parental supervision.

Puberty gingivitis is typically caused by a combination of poor oral hygiene and diet, as well as increased hormone levels during puberty (which increase the sensitivity of the gums to accumulated dental plaque). Poor nutrition can make it difficult for the body to fight infections, putting children at a greater risk of developing gum disease.

Teens who smoke, vape, or chew tobacco tend to be more likely to contract gum disease than non-smoking peers. 

Being under continuous stress weakens the immune system and increases inflammation. High-stress levels, combined with poor oral health and hygiene, can cause gum disease to develop over time. 

This combination of factors makes gingivitis more of a risk for young people going through puberty than it would be at other times in their lives.

Symptoms

Puberty gingivitis symptoms include bleeding and inflammation of the gums. The gum tissue may also become red, swollen, and less firm to the touch. Bad breath can also be a symptom.

Treatment

The best "treatment" for puberty gingivitis is prevention!

As your children grow older and more self-sufficient, they may be less likely to listen to you about maintaining good oral health. To prevent the development of gum disease, parents must maintain their firm stance on this point.

Ensure that your pre-teen brushes thoroughly for two full minutes in the morning and again before bed, and flosses carefully at least once a day.

If your child has already developed gingivitis, periodontal therapy at your dentist’s office may help to get it under control. Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine can be used to control the infection as well. Our Ontario dentists will also advise your teen on the correct brushing and flossing techniques for long-term dental health.

If you have questions about your child’s gum health, we can help! Get in touch with our dentists at Toothworks Masonville Place Dental today for more information! Or find a Toothworks location near you.