Swollen Gums in Children: Causes and Treatment

What are the signs that your child has swollen gums?

Swollen gums are a typical sign of gum disease and usually appear reddish or purplish due to increased blood flow to the area. They could also seem shiny or smooth, and they typically bleed.

What causes it?

Swollen gums can be caused by:

Teething (occurs in young children when the teeth push through the gums).
Infected tooth or gum.
Bacteria build-up due to poor oral hygiene.
Dental issues like gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease).
Poorly fitting dentures.
Malnutrition, such as vitamin B or vitamin C deficiency.
Food debris (for example, a popcorn hull stuck in the gums).
Broken or cracked tooth.
Certain medicines that cause dry mouth.

How is it treated?

Swollen gums can be treated by:

Visiting the dentist.
Brushing and flossing your child’s teeth gently and frequently.
Rinsing your child’s mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help relieve pain and swelling.
Giving your child antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor.
Using a special toothpaste for sensitive teeth as recommended by the doctor.
Not giving your child very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.

How to prevent swollen gums in children?

There are several strategies to prevent swollen gums in children.

Brush your child’s teeth twice daily for two minutes each time, with a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss your child’s teeth once a day to remove plaque.
Give your child a healthy, balanced diet low in sugary foods.
Take your child for dental visits every 6 months.
Avoid sharing drinks and utensils to prevent the transmission of bacteria that causes gum inflammation.
Quit smoking (if you smoke) as second-hand smoke exposure may put your child’s oral health at risk.
Encourage your child to drink plenty of water to maintain hydration and support oral health.

When should you see a doctor for swollen gums?

If your child’s gum swelling persists for more than a few days or causes significant pain, you should take him/her to visit a dentist or periodontist.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Swollen gums are a treatable condition; in some cases, they may even resolve spontaneously. However, timely intervention is crucial for your child’s oral health. The sooner you address gum disease in your child, the greater the likelihood of achieving long-term oral health.

With the proper treatment and attention, swollen gums can be effectively managed, ensuring your child's smile remains healthy and vibrant.

A dedicated and expert team of paediatric dental specialists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance. Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have any concerns or questions regarding gum health.

Pantai Hospitals has been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.