Gingival and Periodontal Diseases and Conditions in Children and Adolescents: Consensus Report

Background

The objectives of this Focused Workshop were to update the epidemiology, aetiology, risk factors, diagnosis and management of gingival and periodontal diseases and conditions in children and adolescents, and to explore the applicability of the 2018 Classification in children and adolescents.

Methods

The Workshop discussions were informed by three specifically commissioned systematic reviews covering gingival and periodontal diseases and conditions, in systemically healthy children and adolescents, or in children and adolescents with systemic conditions.

Results

Over 70 genetic, congenital and acquired systemic conditions that impact the periodontal tissues were identified, with levels of evidence graded as very low, low or moderate. Gingival diseases and conditions in systemically healthy children and adolescents were identified, alongside local predisposing and systemic modifying factors. Periodontitis and other periodontal conditions in the 2018 Classification System also apply to children and adolescents; however, there are challenges with periodontal probing in the primary and mixed dentition.

Conclusions

Periodontal tissues in children and adolescents differ from those in adults and require special consideration, accounting for their stage of development and predisposing and modifying factors unique to younger patients, which may confound accurate diagnosis, prognostication and management. Specific approaches to screening, examination and treatment are necessary for safe and effective management in this patient group.