Addressing periodontal diseases in children and adolescents

The EFP and the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD) are collaborating for the first time to tackle an under-recognised challenge in oral health: gingival and periodontal diseases in children and adolescents. 

A focused workshop, held on 16-17 March 2025, brought together leading experts from both fields to discuss the latest evidence and develop guidance for paediatric and general dentists, periodontists, and caregivers.  The workshop was sponsored by Colgate-Palmolive.

David Herrera, EFP chair of the focused workshop, explains: “This workshop aims to update and deepen our understanding of the epidemiology, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of gingival and periodontal diseases in young populations. Periodontal diseases in children and adolescents are often overlooked because most research and clinical focus is on adults. Yet, early intervention is key to ensuring lifelong oral health.”

A critical, yet overlooked area

While the 2018 classification of periodontal diseases and conditions provided an updated framework for adults, it largely overlooked diseases affecting younger age groups, except when linked to systemic conditions. 

“There is a clear need to compile existing knowledge and develop guidance that will help periodontists, paediatric dentists, general dentists - and importantly - families, to identify and manage these conditions appropriately,” says Herrera. 

Sotiria Gizani, paediatric dentist and EAPD co-chair of the workshop, emphasises the importance of early diagnosis: “Children and adolescents are still growing, and periodontal diseases can seriously affect the development of their oral structures. Gingival tissues should be part of routine dental exams, using criteria tailored to this age group. Early identification and proper management can prevent long-term problems and ensure better oral health outcomes for our young patients.”

Unique challenges in paediatric periodontology

Periodontal diseases in children differ from those in adults because of growth, tooth eruption, and immune system difference. Although biofilm-induced gingivitis is common, more severe forms of periodontitis, although rare, can be aggressive and destructive. 

Diagnosis can be challenging because clinical signs like bone loss are less apparent. Also, children may have difficulties in articulating symptoms. Ultimately, the child's ability to maintain oral hygiene depends heavily on their family. “This is why educating caregivers and using less invasive treatments suited for children are essential,” explains Gizani. 

Despite some existing research, studies on the identification of risk factors, management, and preventive strategies in children remain limited. The workshop aims to help fill these gaps. 

Key findings and workshop discussions 

To inform the workshop, three systematic reviews were commissioned. These reviews shaped discussions within three working groups: 

1. Periodontal diseases linked to systemic conditions, where many more conditions affecting periodontal health in young patients have been identified than were recognised in the 2018 classification. 
2. Gingival conditions, emphasising the high prevalence of biofilm-induced gingivitis and contributing local/systemic factors in children and adolescents. 
3. Periodontitis in children and adolescents, which is rare but often severe and destructive when it occurs. 

Colgate-Palmolive sponsored the workshop. Their spokesperson, Doctor Stephanie Jakumeit, Evidence Generation Manager, explained that the company is dedicated to advancing oral health through science and evidence-based dentistry: “Children and adolescents are a special target group that should specifically be addressed to ensure the best posture for their oral health as adults. Addressing periodontal diseases in this group is crucial as early detection can prevent their progression, which can have long-term impacts on oral and overall health. Improved knowledge in this area can aid in developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies that cater specifically to the unique needs of younger populations.” Jakumeit added: “We are proud of our long-standing collaboration with the EFP and keen to leverage the outcomes to further inform the profession and public about periodontal health in this age group.”

EFP-EAPD collaboration

This is the first formal collaboration between the EFP and EAPD, two major European dental organisations. 

“Bringing together periodontists and paediatric dentists will improve care for children and adolescents and strengthen our common goal of having recognised dental specialties at the European level,” says Herrera.  “Both fields share a patient-centred approach, emphasising prevention, early detection, and continuous care.”

From a paediatric dentistry perspective, Gizani highlights the practical benefits: “Paediatric dentists are often the first point of contact and can play a vital role in early diagnosis and referral. This collaboration helps ensure that we develop unified, evidence-based approaches for managing these diseases. Our ultimate goal is to integrate periodontal care into routine paediatric dental care and improve the quality of life for young patients, including those with disabilities.” 

Looking ahead: future guidance and research 

The focused workshop will produce guidance for practitioners, families, and carers. It is expected to become a key reference in paediatric oral care.  “The EFP has a track record of producing recognised consensus reports. I am confident that the conclusions of this focused workshop will help to identify the standards for managing periodontal diseases in children and adolescents,” says Herrera.

The collaboration is also expected to stimulate further research, including joint research protocols that address the unique challenges of younger populations, their compliance, and their medical backgrounds. 

Moritz Kebschull, EFP president, welcomes the collaboration: “This workshop highlights the EFP’s commitment to advancing periodontal care across all ages. By working with EAPD, we are closing a critical knowledge gap and ensuring that children and adolescents receive the care they need early in life, preventing serious complications later on.” 

Kebschull concludes: “With nearly half of children experiencing gingivitis before puberty, the joint focused workshop on gingival and periodontal diseases in children and adolescents is a timely initiative that may reshape paediatric dental care and oral health for future generations.”