What to Do with Swollen Gums in Kids

As a parent, it’s crucial to act swiftly when your child shows any signs of discomfort or illness. Swollen gums in children can be a concern, but with the right knowledge, you can ensure your child’s oral health is maintained. Let’s explore the steps to take if your child experiences swollen gums.

What is a Swollen Gum?

Swollen gums, or gingival swelling, involve the enlargement of the gum tissues. This common oral health issue can range from mild to severe and is often due to inflammation, infection, or injury. Prompt identification and action are key to preventing more serious dental problems.

Common Cause of Child Swollen Gums Around Tooth

Understanding the common causes of swollen gums in children can help parents and caregivers take the necessary steps to minimize discomfort and promote good dental health. Here are some of the causes of swollen gums:

Teething

Infants and toddlers often have sore gums as a result of teething. Swollen and occasionally sensitive gums might be a sign of inflammation in the tissues immediately around the eruption of infant teeth through the gumline. This goes away after the tooth comes in completely, which is normal for children.

Gingivitis

Anyone, regardless of age, can get gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. Plaque and bacteria buildup on the gums, resulting in irritation and swelling, can be caused by inadequate brushing and flossing, which is a kind of poor oral hygiene. Prevention and pediatric dental treatment of gingivitis in children can be achieved through the promotion of regular dental hygiene practices.

Injuries or Trauma

Sore gums can be a symptom of an injury or trauma to the mouth or teeth. Gum tissue swelling can occur as a result of a fall, a blow to the face, or even an accidental biting of the inside of the cheek. Even while most injuries heal on their own, it’s important to keep an eye on things and get dental help if needed, especially since it may result in receding gums in children.

Food Impaction

Particles of food can get wedged between a child’s teeth or even along their gums, a condition known as food impaction. The gums might become inflamed and painful as a result of this. Flossing delicately in between the teeth usually solves the problem.

Dental Infection

Swollen gums may indicate the presence of an abscess or infection in the mouth. Untreated cavities or pulp damage might lead to the development of these infections. A tooth infection is a serious condition that requires the attention of a dentist as soon as possible.

Remedies for Children’s Swollen Gums

If you’re worried about your kid’s swollen gums, there are multiple ways to help them alleviate the pain. Some examples are below.

Gentle Massage

Use clean fingertips to gently massage the region around the sore gums. Swelling can be painful and uncomfortable, but this can help alleviate some of that pressure. If you want to avoid irritating somebody, wash your hands and keep your nails short.

Cold Compress

Try using a cold compress on the outside of your cheek, close to your inflamed gums, for some relief. Put on a clean towel or an ice pack in a thin cloth and hold it there for fifteen to twenty minutes each time. In addition to numbing the area, the cold can assist reduce inflammation.

Teething Rings or Toys:

If your child’s swollen gums are the result of teething, you can alleviate some of their discomfort by giving them a teething ring or toy. To alleviate pain in the areas of their teeth, especially front tooth pain, these toys are made to be chewable without causing any harm.

Teething Gels or Ointments

You can refer to over-the-counter ointments or gels for teething that contain a little anesthetic and apply them to the region as instructed. Never give your child any kind of medication or use any kind of teething product without first talking to your doctor or physician.

Pain Reliever

If the swelling is giving you a lot of trouble, talk to your dentist or pediatrician about some pain medicines that are suitable for your child’s age. Only under the supervision of a medical expert and at the prescribed dosage should they be taken.

Preventive Measures for Child Swollen Gums Around Tooth

When kids experience puffy gums, it might be a sign of more serious problems with their teeth and gums. It is crucial to take precautions to reduce the frequency of gum swelling and encourage proper dental hygiene.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

Make sure your child has frequent dental checkups beginning when they are little. Regular dental exams are essential for keeping tabs on their oral health and detecting problems early on.

Good Oral Hygiene

Instill good dental hygiene practices early on. Make it a habit for your child to use a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste that is suitable for their age to clean their teeth twice a day. Also, have them floss every day when their teeth touch.

Supervised Brushing

When your child reaches the age of seven or eight, you should begin to notice improvements in their coordination and diligence, which should allow them to brush independently with relative ease. This will make sure that their gums and teeth are getting a good scrubbing.

Proper Bottle and Sippy Cup Usage

Do not put your child to bed with a bottle that contains sugary drinks, such as milk or juice. Damage to teeth and gums might result from them. Give them water instead before they go to sleep.

Get Rid of Swollen Gums with Junior Smiles

Concern about your child’s overall health, including their dental hygiene, is a normal part of being a parent. Teething, gingivitis, traumas, food impaction, and dental infections are frequent causes of swollen gums in youngsters. But if you are well-informed and take preventative measures, you can make sure your child is comfortable and avoid problems in the future.

Taking care of your baby’s gum and teeth is our first priority here at Junior Smiles in Stafford, VA. All children, no matter their age, can receive the exceptional dental treatment they need at our premier pediatric clinic. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any worries regarding the swelling of your child’s gums or if you require expert advice regarding their oral health. Give your child the gift of a beautiful smile by making an appointment with our skilled pediatric dentists in Stafford, VA!