Kids Gums Can Hurt Even Without Teething

Posted on 11/15/2024 by NC Pediatric Dentisty

As a parent, it's heartbreaking to see your little one in discomfort. You might automatically assume that sore gums are due to teething, especially when your baby is between 3 and 33 months old. While this is often the case, there are other reasons why your child's gums might be hurting.

Understanding Teething

Teething is a natural process where your baby's primary (baby) teeth erupt through the gums. This can cause discomfort, irritability, and changes in eating and sleeping patterns. Common symptoms of teething include:

•	Red, swollen gums
•	Drooling
•	Chewing on objects
•	Irritability
•	Restlessness
•	Difficulty sleeping
•	Mild fever

Other Reasons for Sore Gums

Even if your child isn't teething, there are other reasons why their gums might be hurting. These include:

•	Mouth sores: These can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or trauma. Common types of mouth sores include canker sores, cold sores, and hand-foot-and-mouth disease.
•	Gum infection: This can occur if bacteria enters the gums through a cut or injury. Symptoms include red, swollen gums, pain, and sometimes pus.
•	Improper brushing: If your child is not brushing their teeth properly, they may be irritating their gums. It's important to teach your child the proper brushing technique and supervise them while they brush.
•	Allergies: Certain foods or medications can cause allergic reactions that can affect the gums. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, and pain.
•	Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, can lead to gum problems.
•	Trauma: Injuries to the mouth, such as falls or bites, can damage the gums and cause pain.

When to See a Pediatric Dentist

If your child's gums are sore and you're concerned, it's always best to consult a pediatric dentist. They can diagnose the cause of the pain and recommend the appropriate treatment. Some reasons to see a dentist immediately include:

•	Severe pain or swelling
•	Bleeding gums
•	Pus or discharge from the gums
•	Difficulty swallowing or breathing
•	Fever over 101°F

Tips for Soothing Sore Gums

Here are a few things you can do at home to help soothe your child's sore gums:

•	Give them a cold washcloth or teething ring to chew on.
•	Massage their gums with a clean finger.
•	Offer them cold, soft foods like yogurt or applesauce.
•	Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (only with the advice of your pediatrician).
•	Avoid giving them hard, sugary foods or drinks.

Conclusion

While teething is a common cause of sore gums in children, it's important to be aware of other possible causes. If you're concerned about your child's gum pain, don't hesitate to see a pediatric dentist. They can help diagnose the cause of the pain and recommend the best course of treatment.

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