Seeing a red swollen gum or a pimple like bump beside a baby tooth, many parents assume the tooth will fall out anyway and so needs no care. That belief can harm the child.
- A swollen gum or pimple near a baby tooth is usually decay reaching the nerve and causing infection at the root.
- Do not wait for the baby tooth to fall out, since infection can spread and affect the permanent tooth bud beneath.
- The dentist will examine and decide whether to treat or remove the baby tooth, and parents should not squeeze the bump.
- Filling decayed baby teeth early and regular check ups help prevent abscesses.
A pimple like bump on the gum, a red swollen gum or pus near a baby tooth is a sign not to ignore. Many parents think the baby tooth will fall out anyway so they just wait, but infection around a baby tooth can still spread and affect the permanent tooth bud beneath.
Why does a baby tooth get a pimple?
The most common cause is a baby tooth that has been decayed for a long time, with bacteria entering the nerve and then spreading to the root. Pus collects and looks for a way out through the gum surface, forming a bump like a pimple. A baby tooth injured by a knock can also lose its nerve and become infected.
Signs to recognise
- A red swollen gum, a pimple like bump or pus draining out.
- Pain on chewing, refusing food or fussiness, especially at night.
- A swollen cheek, possibly with fever.
- A large cavity, or a tooth that has turned grey or is wobbly.
Why not wait for it to fall out?
The permanent tooth bud lies right beneath the root of the baby tooth. Prolonged infection can damage the bud, making the permanent tooth erupt out of line or have defects. Infection may also spread to the surrounding tissue, causing a swollen cheek and fever. See what a swollen cheek from a tooth means and whether it is an abscess.
How is it treated?
The dentist will examine and may take an X-ray to judge the extent. Depending on the situation, the baby tooth may be treated or removed to clear the source of infection. See whether removing a baby tooth hurts and when it is really needed. Do not squeeze the bump yourself or give your child medicine without the dentist's instruction.
Prevention
- Brush your child's teeth twice a day and limit sweets.
- Fill decayed baby teeth early rather than waiting for them to fall out, see whether decayed baby teeth need a filling.
- Take your child for regular check ups to find problems early.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Bring your child early if you see a swollen gum, a pimple like bump, a swollen cheek or fever. Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Parents can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first.
Frequently asked questions
Does a pimple on the gum near a baby tooth need a check?
Yes. It is a sign of infection at the root of the baby tooth and needs a dentist's check even if your child does not complain of pain.
Can I just wait for the baby tooth to fall out?
Not advisable. The infection can spread and affect the permanent tooth bud beneath.
Should I squeeze the pimple on my child's gum?
No, because it can spread the infection. Bring your child to a dentist to be treated properly.