Gum disease (1801)

Key points below


What is gum disease?

Gum disease is when the tissue around the teeth get red, swollen, and painful. It can cause many problems. If severe, the teeth can fall out. If not treated, it can cause other problems
in the body.

What causes gum disease?

A sticky layer of germs forms on the teeth. This is called plaque. If the plaque is not removed daily, it causes gum disease.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

How is gum disease treated?

What is the deep cleaning or scaling and root planing procedure?

What are the risks of the scaling and root planing procedure?

1. Discomfort, soreness, or pain in the gums. Teeth may be more sensitive for a week after
treatment. Your child’s gums may feel tender, be swollen and bleed more easily for
about 1 week.
2. Rarely, your child may have drug reaction, infection, a sore jaw, and cracks in the
corners of their mouth.
3. Rarely, tooth sensitivity that does not go away.

Other Information

ALERT

Call your child’s dentist or clinic if you have any concerns or if your child:

  • Has swelling that is getting worse or not going away.
  • Has pain that does not go away with over the counter pain medicine or by medicine prescribed by your doctor.
  • Has special health care needs not covered by this information.