Young Patients with Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the term given to the infection in the tissue surrounding the teeth. While the vast majority of adults have some form – it is generally estimated that more than 90% of adults have periodontal disease – it is generally seen in patients more frequently when they are 30 years old or older.  That being said, young people can also be affected by certain rare forms of the disease.

“In general bone loss in young people is uncommon, but the risk seems to increase between the ages of 12 and 17,” says Dr. Denine Rice from her Riverside, California Periodontal and Implant surgery center. “Too often we see young people with signs of disease and early bone loss. This is why the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has recommended that young people beginning at age 12 should have regular periodontal evaluations to determine if there are any early signs of bone loss.”

Aggressive periodontal disease in young people means that bone loss occurs that much earlier and can result in tooth loss also at an earlier age.

“Most often the loss of attachment is seen in the molar areas first,” Dr. Rice adds.  “This means that as a parent, you should be asking your pediatric dentist or general dentist to evaluate your child for signs of the disease and certainly they should be evaluated before any orthodontic treatment begins.”

To help keep your child’s mouth healthy and happy, remember regular visits to the dentist are a must.