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Most people think of teeth first when it comes to a smile, but gums don’t get nearly enough attention. September is National Gum Care Month, and honestly, it’s a good reminder for all of us—especially parents—that gum health matters just as much as shiny white teeth.
Why gums matter for kids
Think of gums as the “soil” holding teeth in place. If the gums aren’t healthy, even the strongest tooth can run into trouble. And yes—kids can get gum issues. A lot of parents are surprised to hear that gingivitis (early gum disease) is actually pretty common in children. Usually it shows up as red or swollen gums, or bleeding when they brush.
The good news? Catch it early and it’s easy to turn things around.
Signs to watch for at home
If your child’s gums are:
- Bleeding a lot when they brush or floss
- Looking puffy or really red
- Or if their breath smells “off” all the time
…it’s worth getting them checked. Sometimes it’s just brushing habits, sometimes it’s a bigger issue, but either way—it’s easier to fix early.
Small things that go a long way
Here’s the tricky part: kids don’t exactly love flossing and brushing carefully around their gums. But a few small shifts can really help:
- Angle the toothbrush so it gets the gumline, not just the teeth.
- Start flossing once two teeth touch (floss picks can save arguments).
- Offer water instead of juice between meals.
- Try snacks that don’t cling to teeth—like cheese, apple slices, or veggies.
And one more thing parents sometimes don’t realize: if your child breathes through their mouth a lot—especially at night—it can dry out their gums and cause irritation. Worth mentioning to the dentist if you see it.
Making it fun (or at least less of a battle)
Brushing doesn’t have to be a chore. Put on a silly song, let your child pick their toothbrush, or make it a “family brush time” before bed. Some parents even do sticker charts or small rewards—whatever keeps it consistent. Kids love routine when it feels like a game.
Bonus reminder for fall sports
With school back, a lot of kids are back on the soccer field or in the gym. A good mouthguard doesn’t just protect teeth—it also prevents cuts and bumps to the gums. If your child plays contact sports, it’s something to keep in mind.
The bottom line
Healthy gums = a healthier smile. If you’ve noticed bleeding or swollen gums, or if it’s been a while since your child’s last cleaning, this is the perfect time to book a visit. At SmileTown, we make check-ups relaxed, kid-friendly, and even a little fun.
Because happy gums today mean a healthier smile for years to come.
Reach Out to Our Kids-Only Dentist Today Are you searching for a friendly and experienced children’s dentist to help your child maintain a healthy smile early on? Luckily, our kid’s only office and team are always welcoming new patients with no referral necessary. To book an appointment, call SmileTown – Just Kid’s Dentistry at (226) 773-1663, or contact us here.