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Gingivitis in Teens Marietta, GA

Gingivitis in Teens

Marietta GA Children's Dental Care

If you have a teenager in your household, we know you’ve got plenty to worry about. However, among GPA’s, curfews and peer groups, you may also need to put their oral health on your radar. Those raging hormones can impact the conditions of their gums just as much as they do your teen’s attitude. Specifically, the hormonal changes in adolescents puts them at a much greater risk for gingivitis. Gingivitis is nothing to play around with, as it is the first stage of gum disease. Untreated gum disease accounts for tooth loss as well as serious drawbacks within one’s overall health.

Why are teens so susceptible to gum disease? Let’s understand how gum disease develops in the first place. When bad bacteria enter the mouth and we don’t do enough to get rid of them (brushing, flossing, seeing the dentist), then they start to breed and grow until they irritate and even infect the gum tissues. Unfortunately, the average teen offers bacteria a perfect environment to live and multiply.

Hormones: The sudden surge in hormones that occurs during puberty (especially in girls) can cause increased blood circulation in the gums, which leaves the gums tender, swollen and extra sensitive.

Inconsistent Oral Hygiene: It is not uncommon for your teen to slack on his or her brushing and flossing habits during their newfound stages of independence. Sadly, this can greatly contribute to the presence of gum disease and teen gingivitis.

Braces: There is a large majority of teenagers who have to wear braces. This is another obstacle to good oral hygiene, as the brackets and wires themselves can make it difficult to clean out food debris, plaque and bad bacteria from the teeth and gums. In turn, it is common to see puffy and red gums on a child with braces.

Carb-Heavy Snacks and Meals: Let’s face it; pizza is a go-to meal for most teens. Whether it is pizza or sweets, frequent and late-night eating habits are especially common in teens. These carb-rich choices, however, contain extra sugars that oral bacteria love to feed on.

What Can You Do?

First and foremost, keep a close eye on your teen’s gums. Do they look red, swollen or irritated? Do they bleed easily? Does your child suffer from chronic bad breath? It is important to get your teenager in for routine dental visit at Gilreath Family Dentistry so that we can examine your child’s gums and recommend any extra therapies to reverse gingivitis. If your teen is not willing to be lectured by you on how to properly care for their teeth and gums, we are happy to have the conversation for you. A healthier mouth can make for a happier teen – and who doesn’t want that?

Posted on behalf of Dr. Paul Gilreath IV, Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta

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Please call us at (770) 796-7081.

Our Client Reviews
Gilreath Family Dentistry

Sarah Khatib

Dr. Daniel Lee is the best dentist I've seen. She's so considerate of your fear of the dentist and was so painless although multiple procedures were done at the same time to save me a visit. Will definitely be coming here for years to come Il!

Susan

Dr. Gilreath is incredible with my kids. They love going to the dentist now! And this busy mom loves the warm neck wraps, the soft music and enjoying a latte while I relax!

Kenneth H.

Was lucky enough to find these guys when I got insurance that my old dentist did not take. Very professional and friendly staff! Office has the latest greatest technology as well. If you're looking for a new dentist, search no further!

Susie L.

Very personable and friendly, they took the time to go over my complex dental history and did not pressure me into anything. They gave their recommendations and priced out any options I had. Great group!

Camille Y.

Dr. Gilreath and his staff are top notch. I received the best cleaning I've ever had while watching my favorite show. The Doctor and his staff were all very polite, friendly, and courteous. They explained everything to me clearly and presented me with options in a gentle way that didn't make me feel pressured at all. It's obvious they really care about the wellbeing of their patients. The facility and equipment is really nice as well. I will definitely be back!

Juan R.

Always willing to work around my kids and my schedules. Today I had a long appointment. They started on time and always made sure I was comfortable and that the pain was managed so the procedure could’ve been completed without issues. Very courteous and professional staff.

Lucia B.

Awesome dental practice! The staff is friendly and efficient. Dr. Gilreath is thorough and versed in the latest technology and procedures. I love that he can make crowns in the office while you wait (so no walking around with a temporary crown for days or weeks). I would strongly recommend this dental practice!

Matthew W.

I've been going here for about a little over a year now. I've had a few cleanings, a filling, and started Invisiline so far. Hands down, the best run dental office I've ever been to. In the past at other dental offices I often had to wait 30 or more minutes beyond my appointment time before being seen. At Dr. Gilreath's office I've been seen on time every time. They seem to have systems in place to make every part of your visit run smoothly. From how they took x-rays, to billing and appointments, to the work done by the hygienist/dentist, everything seems to run like a well oiled machine. On top of that all the staff are all friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. The office space itself is also quite nice. Very clean, well maintained, and seems very "up to date" with their equipment. If you're looking for a dentist and are anywhere in the northwest metro area I would highly recommend Dr. Gilreath.

Our Office

Gilreath Family Dentistry

200 White St NW
Marietta, GA 30060

Call to Schedule an Appointment:
(770) 796-7081

Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta waiting room Marietta GA.