Why Does My Toddler Have Swollen Gums?

Have you recently noticed your toddler’s gums are looking swollen? Is it time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mila Belgrade?

Not necessarily. Swollen gums can be caused by a lot of things, and in some cases, you can take care of them right at home.

Check out the following blog post to understand what causes swollen gums in toddlers, and what to do about it.
 

4 Common Causes for Swollen Gums 

Your toddler’s gums may be red, inflamed, or swollen because of:

 

Teething

Teething may be the cause of your child’s swollen gums. If you look at their gums and see that the swelling is mostly centered near the areas of the mouth where teeth are erupting, it’s likely the cause of the problem. 

During this stage, parents should handle their children’s oral hygiene needs with care and gently brush the gums and teeth two times a day. You can also gently rub the toddler’s gums with your finger to ease some of the discomfort.
 

Bacteria Build-up

Many parents might not know they should take care of their child’s oral health long before that first baby tooth erupts. 

It’s very important to clean the child’s gums after every feeding by gently going over the gums with a soft and damp washcloth. This removes lingering milk, which could attract bacteria to the gums. Over time, this bacteria causes slight inflammation.
 

Gingivitis

Toddlers can get gingivitis too. As plaque continues to accumulate between the teeth and gums, it begins to attack the soft tissue, leading to this condition. 

While it’s rare for babies to develop gingivitis, it can happen if their oral health isn’t properly handled.

 

Injury 

Toddlers love to chew on things they aren’t supposed to, and sometimes they may accidentally hurt themselves. 

Swollen gums, especially if located in a specific area, could be a sign that the child did just that. You may also notice a tiny amount of blood from the gums, which usually goes away on its own if the injury is minor.

 

When Are Swollen Gums a Reason to See a Dentist?

If you’re concerned about your child’s oral health, then you can bring them to see Dr. Dikla Chazbani for an appointment.

During the consultation, Dr. Belgrade can determine what caused the inflammation and provide the right treatment plan. Moreover, parents can also get extra tips on how to properly care for their toddler’s oral health and make sure they develop a healthy and happy smile.
 

Bring Your Child to Miles of Little Smiles

If your child is dealing with swollen gums, stop by for an appointment with Dr. Mila Belgrade and Dr. Dikla Chazbani. Based on a thorough consultation, you can access the right plan to restore your toddler’s oral health.

You can request an appointment at Miles of Little Smiles online, or call our office at (914) 949-6655 for a short chat.

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