By Dr. Cameron Zealand, North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry

When people think about gum disease, they usually picture an older adult—not a smiling, carefree kid with a mouthful of baby teeth. So when I bring up periodontal disease during a child’s dental check-up, I often get the same surprised look from parents. “Wait… kids can actually get gum disease?”

Short answer? Yes, they can.

And if you’ve never thought of that before, you’re not alone. Gum disease—or periodontal disease—isn’t just something that sneaks up when you’re older. It can affect children, even toddlers, and especially teens. It doesn’t always show up the same way as it does in adults, and that’s part of what makes it tricky to catch. But catching it early and managing it properly is key to avoiding long-term issues.

Let’s dig into what gum disease in kids really looks like, how it happens, and what we can do as parents (and pediatric dentists) to help prevent it.

What Exactly Is Gum Disease in Kids?

Gum disease is basically an infection of the gums caused by plaque—the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth when brushing or flossing isn’t quite cutting it. The earliest and most common form is called gingivitis. And yes, kids absolutely get it.

Signs of gum disease in kids might include:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Puffy, red, or tender gums
• Bad breath that sticks around
• Receding gumlines or teeth that look longer than usual
  

In teens, the risk goes up even more because of changing hormones, diet, and (let’s be honest) sometimes slipping a bit in their oral hygiene habits.

In younger kids, gingivitis can often be reversed pretty easily with proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings. But if it’s ignored, things can progress into periodontitis, which is more serious and can lead to bone loss and permanent damage—even in children.

Why It Happens—and What You Can Do About It

The number one reason kids develop gum disease? Poor brushing and flossing. It’s as simple—and as common—as that.

Other contributing factors can include:

• Mouth breathing (which dries out the gums and leads to inflammation)
• Orthodontic appliances like braces (which make cleaning harder)
• Diets high in sugary or sticky foods
• Genetics (yep, some kids are more prone to it!)
• Certain medical conditions like diabetes

As a pediatric dentist in Calgary, I’ve seen all kinds of cases—some mild, some more serious—but here’s the truth: gum disease is preventable. And the earlier we catch it, the easier it is to treat.

Parents can help by:

• Establishing strong brushing and flossing routines at home
• Supervising their kids’ brushing until at least age 8
• Keeping regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist (like me!)
• Asking questions and staying curious about oral health
  

And when in doubt? Bring your child in. No question is too small, and no early intervention is ever wasted.

How We Help Prevent Gum Disease at North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry

At our office, prevention is the name of the game. Our philosophy is built around education, comfort, and forming habits that last a lifetime. We tailor care to every age and stage—from toddlers to teens—and keep things positive and low-pressure.

Here’s what we focus on:

1. Early Detection
We do thorough gum assessments during every check-up to spot early signs of inflammation or gum issues—especially around braces or permanent teeth that are coming in.

2. Education
We don’t just clean teeth—we teach kids and parents why oral hygiene matters. We show them how to brush effectively, how to make flossing less of a battle, and how their diet plays a role in gum health.

3. Gentle Cleanings
Our hygiene team is amazing with kids. They’re patient, kind, and trained to work with all personalities and needs. Whether your child is nervous or a dental pro, we make it a fun and stress-free experience.

4. Personalized Plans
If we spot early signs of gum disease, we’ll put together a treatment plan that fits your child’s age and situation. That could mean more frequent cleanings, changes to at-home care, or in some cases, working with a specialist.

The Bottom Line: Gum Health Is Part of the Whole Picture

Gum health isn’t just a “grown-up” problem—it’s a foundational part of your child’s overall oral health. And the good news? With the right care, it’s something we can absolutely stay on top of together.

At North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry, we’re not just here to fix problems—we’re here to help your child avoid them. As your pediatric dentist in Calgary, I’m committed to helping families raise kids with strong, healthy smiles and good habits that last a lifetime.

If you’re worried about your child’s gums, noticing any symptoms, or just want a second set of eyes (and friendly support), book an appointment with us. Let’s make oral health something your kids feel good about—and you do too.

Ready to keep those little gums healthy and happy?
Schedule your child’s visit with North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry today. Let’s protect their smile—together.