For some people gum disease is what happen to older people and not to children.  However that would not be correct.  Gum Disease ( Periodontal disease) can effect anyone at any age.   Gum Disease is an infection of the tissues and bone that help support the teeth.  If untreated gum disease can become very serious dental issue causing teeth to become loose and even fall out.

Gum disease is one of the main reason why people in the U.S. lose their teeth.  It is normally caused by plaque buildup.  Plaque contains bacteria, which produce toxins that irritate and damage the gums.  By having proper dental habits at home (brushing and flossing twice a day) and by having regular dental check ups you can help to prevent gum disease.  A child should start seeing a dentist from the time they cut their first tooth or by their first birthday.