Understanding gingivitis in children and adolescents without systemic disorders

Summaries 1 min 9

Font Size

Created On: 31/10/2026

Dental biofilm–induced gingivitis (DB-GI) is a common inflammatory ailment of the gums in children and adolescents younger than 18 years.

See All

Key take away

Dental biofilm–induced gingivitis impacts nearly 52% of children and adolescents and requires effective plaque control, supervised toothbrushing, and targeted oral health education.

Background

Dental biofilm–induced gingivitis (DB-GI) is a common inflammatory ailment of the gums in children and adolescents younger than 18 years. Its occurrence is influenced by multiple factors, including socioeconomic circumstances, oral hygiene practices, pubertal changes and malocclusion. Beyond gingival inflammation, the condition is linked with poorer oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL), reinforcing the importance of early prevention and effective plaque control. However, variations in diagnostic criteria and the quality of available research complicate comparisons across studies. Hence, this systematic review sought to fill this gap.

Method

Researchers explored PubMed Central, Scopus, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE) and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) for relevant studies issued up to January 2025. Clinical trials and observational studies investigating gingival diseases or conditions in otherwise healthy individuals younger than 18 years were eligible for inclusion. Of the 33,180 studies identified, 2,264 remained after title and abstract screening, and 433 underwent full-text assessment. Ultimately, 269 studies were included.

Result

All 269 included studies focused exclusively on DB-GI, though significant heterogeneity was identified across diagnostic criteria and study quality.

Prevalence & burden: DB-GI is common among pediatric populations, exhibiting an estimated prevalence of 52%. The condition is considerably linked with reduced OHRQoL.
Determinants & risk factors: Key factors driving gingival inflammation include low socioeconomic status, malocclusion, inadequate oral hygiene behaviors, and pubertal hormonal fluctuations.
Management: Primary management relies on supervised toothbrushing via a fluoridated toothpaste combined with school- or caregiver-based oral health education programs. Adjunctive usage of chlorhexidine exhibits clinical potency and offers additional therapeutic benefit in specific clinical scenarios requiring targeted microbial control.

Conclusion

DB-GI affects 52% of children and adolescents without systemic conditions and negatively impacts OHRQoL. Successful management requires accessible, education-focused, and behavior-oriented biofilm control strategies, centered around supervised fluoridated toothbrushing and reinforced by caregiver and educational institutional support.