
Swollen or Bleeding Gums in Kids – Gum Care in Bothell, WA
At Hello Kids Dentistry in Bothell, WA, we provide gentle, expert care for kids experiencing swollen, red, or bleeding gums. While these symptoms can sometimes result from brushing too hard or early gum irritation, they may also be signs of gum disease or infection. We help parents identify the cause early—so small problems don’t turn into bigger ones.
What Causes Gum Infections in Children?
Gum swelling or bleeding is often a sign that plaque and bacteria are irritating your child’s gums. This can happen when brushing or flossing habits are inconsistent, or if your child is just learning good hygiene techniques.

When to Take Gum Symptoms Seriously?
Swollen or bleeding gums are often the result of early irritation from plaque buildup or food particles stuck between teeth, but in some cases, they can be an early sign of gingivitis, the beginning stage of gum disease. Left untreated, this can progress and affect the bones that support your child’s teeth.
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Watch for symptoms like:
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Red, tender, or swollen gums
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Bleeding during brushing or flossing
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Bad breath that doesn’t go away
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Gums that appear to be receding or pulling away from teeth
Factors like mouth breathing, hormonal changes, or certain medications can increase the risk of gum irritation. A gentle dental exam can quickly determine the cause and help get your child back on track, with minimal stress and maximum comfort.

How We Treat Swollen or Bleeding Gums
At Hello Kids Dentistry, we approach gum care with compassion and kid-friendly guidance. Treatment often includes:
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A gentle dental cleaning to remove plaque buildup
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Instruction on proper brushing and flossing technique
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Antibacterial rinses or fluoride treatments if needed
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Ongoing monitoring during checkups
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Referral to a pediatric specialist if deeper infection is present
Dr. Manjote Dhaliwal (Dr. Dhali) will evaluate your child’s gum health and provide a personalized care plan that’s easy to follow at home.
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Preventing Gum Infections at Home
The best defense against gum problems is daily care. We recommend:
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Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
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Flossing daily (or with floss picks for younger kids)
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Drinking plenty of water to rinse away bacteria
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Visiting us every six months for preventive cleanings
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Gum infections can be uncomfortable, but with early care, they’re easy to treat. At Hello Kids Dentistry, we’re here to help your child feel better fast and build strong, lifelong dental habits. If you’ve noticed bleeding or swollen gums, we’re just a phone call away.
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We proudly care for young smiles in Bothell, Kenmore, Woodinville, Mill Creek, Lynnwood, and Kirkland.
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