Gum bleeding in children, caused by mouth ulcers, can be concerning for parents due to the discomfort and fussiness experienced by their child. Understanding the underlying causes and finding ways to alleviate these symptoms is crucial. This article provides detailed insights into the condition of gum bleeding in young children.
What causes gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers?
According to medical professionals, gum bleeding is one of the symptoms associated with mouth ulcers in children. Mouth ulcers often manifest as small white sores on the lips, tongue, and gums. These oval or circular-shaped ulcers can vary in severity from mild to more extensive. Notably, some ulcers on
the gums can lead to bleeding, especially when the child consumes salty or spicy foods or when the ulcer comes into contact with food during chewing.
What causes gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers?
The primary cause of gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers is the presence of bacteria. These bacteria cause inflammation, swelling, bleeding, and the potential formation of pus in the child’s oral cavity. In severe cases, they can lead to the development of a condition called suppurative gingivitis.
Additionally, there are several factors that contribute to the occurrence of gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers:
- Accidental biting: Unfortunate incidents where the child bites their lips, gums, or tongue can cause damage to the mucous membranes, creating an opportunity for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to invade and cause inflammation and infection.
- Inadequate oral hygiene: Insufficient oral hygiene practices, such as aggressive tooth brushing or inadequate cleaning, can lead to abrasions in the oral cavity, resulting in inflammation and subsequent gum bleeding.
- Medication side effects: Some medications, such as antihistamines or pain relievers, may cause dry mouth, which is one of the factors that contribute to gum inflammation and bleeding.
- Coexisting conditions: If mouth ulcers are accompanied by lesions or blisters on the hands, feet, or body, parents should be aware that the child may have hand, foot, and mouth disease, chickenpox, or measles.
Prolonged gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers, if left untreated, can lead to blood loss, anemia, and even severe gum and tooth inflammation.
In addition to gum bleeding, children with mouth ulcers may experience symptoms such as mouth pain, sudden fever, decreased appetite, tongue ulcers, frequent irritability, restlessness, and crying. Therefore, it is crucial for parents to promptly take appropriate measures to address and care for their child’s condition.
How to deal with gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers?
Although gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers is not life-threatening, it can have significant impacts on their eating and nutrient absorption. Therefore, parents need to take prompt measures to address the issue. Here are some remedies that can help alleviate gum bleeding in children with mouth ulcers:
Improving mouth ulcers with home remedies
With these methods, you can use natural ingredients to address your child’s mouth ulcer condition. These methods are safe, simple, and easy to implement, which is why many parents trust them.
Here are some traditional remedies that utilize safe natural ingredients for you to consider:
- Using beetroot mouthwash: Beetroot is a nutrient-rich food, especially high in vitamin C and various components that have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These properties are beneficial for combating mouth ulcers in young children. Peel and mash a beetroot, extract the juice, and mix it with a cup of filtered water. Have your child rinse their mouth with this mixture three times a day. Applying this method for two days can effectively alleviate the symptoms of mouth ulcers.
- Using orange and lemon juice: Vitamin deficiency is one of the causes of mouth ulcers. In this case, parents need to supplement their child’s diet with fresh fruits rich in vitamins A, B, C, etc., such as oranges and lemons, to improve their immune system, help them fight inflammation, and shorten the recovery time.
- Drinking powder made from Japanese arrowroot: Drinking Japanese arrowroot powder helps children cool down and effectively detoxify. When your child has mouth ulcers, you can mix Japanese arrowroot powder with water to reduce the feeling of pain and discomfort in the mouth. You can give your child 1-2 cups of Japanese arrowroot powder water per day to expedite the healing process.
- Using tomato juice: Giving your child tomato juice is one of the effective methods to push back mouth ulcers. This method also provides your child with essential vitamins and minerals that strengthen their immune system. You can have your child drink 1-2 cups of tomato juice per day to alleviate mouth ulcers.
- Using honey: According to research, honey has antimicrobial properties and helps expedite the healing process of ulcers. Therefore, when your child has mouth ulcers, you can apply honey directly to the sores 1-2 times a day to promote faster recovery. Note that for children under 2 years old, honey should not be used.
- Using sour star fruit: Using sour star fruit is an effective method to push back mouth ulcers. Sour star fruit contains various components that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties while boosting the immune system. Using sour star fruit can improve mouth ulcers in children. Clean and slice 2-3 sour star fruits, soak them in diluted saltwater, and simmer them for a few minutes. Let the water cool down, and then have your child use it as a mouthwash. Be persistent in applying this method for a few days to achieve the best results.
Using tomato juice.
Using medication to treat canker sores and bleeding gums
In addition to using natural remedies, parents can use certain medications to treat their child’s canker sores and bleeding gums. This method can provide quick relief for the child. However, it’s important for parents to use these medications according to the doctor’s instructions to avoid any unwanted side effects.
Mouthpaste for treating canker sores in children: Mouthpaste contains Triamcinolone Acetonide, which helps heal the sores in the child’s oral mucosa. Simply apply a sufficient amount of the ointment to the affected area. Apply it 2-3 times a day to reduce pain and discomfort and help the sores heal faster.
Kamistad for treating canker sores in children: Kamistad is an oral gel that adheres well to the affected area, providing quick relief from pain and swelling. This medication is effective for canker sores and mouth ulcers caused by canker sores, and can be used by both adults and children. Each day, parents should clean the child’s oral cavity and then apply a sufficient amount of the gel directly to the affected area three times a day (morning, noon, and night). When using Kamistad, it’s important to note that it may cause a mild burning sensation upon application.
Orrepaste for treating canker sores in children: Orrepaste is a cream-type medication that contains Triamcinolone Acetonide, which helps alleviate pain, discomfort, and inflammation caused by canker sores. Using this medication can also help reduce the size and number of the sores. To apply this medication, parents should only need to apply a small amount of the cream to the affected area. Apply it once a day, preferably 1 hour before eating or 1-2 hours before bedtime.
Trinolone Oral Paste: Trinolone Oral Paste, originating from Thailand, is highly effective in preventing the spread of mouth ulcers. This product prevents the ulcers from spreading and effectively reduces pain and discomfort. With this medication, parents should have the child rinse their mouth with saltwater and then apply a sufficient amount of the paste to the inflamed ulcer area. Apply the medication to the child 2-3 times a day for best results. Note that Trinolone Oral Paste should not be used for children under a certain age.
Thorough oral hygiene.
Caring for a child with canker sores and bleeding gums
A child with canker sores and bleeding gums not only experiences pain and discomfort but also faces challenges with daily eating and drinking. In addition to implementing appropriate treatment measures, parents should pay attention to the following oral health care practices for their child:
Thorough oral hygiene: Parents should encourage their child to rinse their mouth with saltwater daily. It is best to use a diluted saltwater solution to ensure the correct ratio and achieve optimal effectiveness. Each day, parents should have the child rinse their mouth 3-4 times to kill bacteria and promote the quick healing of canker sores. For children aged 2-3 and older, parents can introduce regular tooth brushing. Parents should have the child brush their teeth twice a day using toothpaste formulated for children and a toothbrush specifically designed for them.
Monitor the diet: When a child has canker sores and bleeding gums, parents should adjust their diet accordingly. It is advisable to limit spicy and hot foods, tough or fried foods with excessive oil. Instead, parents can prepare soft and liquid foods such as soups, porridge, etc., to make it easier for the child to eat. Furthermore, parents should ensure that the child receives an adequate and balanced diet, prioritizing foods rich in iron, vitamin C, and B12 to expedite the healing of the sores.
Encourage hydration: Providing ample water for the child helps prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate the severity of the ulcers. Additionally, maintaining adequate hydration can help cool down the body, aid in detoxification, and speed up recovery from the sores. For breastfeeding infants, mothers should ensure they are nursing more frequently. Breast milk contains antibodies that improve immune function, thereby facilitating quicker healing of canker sores.
A child with canker sores and bleeding gums may face inconveniences in their daily activities, affecting their overall development. Therefore, parents need to be attentive. If they notice any unusual symptoms in the child, they should promptly apply appropriate treatment measures. Moreover, ensuring a healthy diet and lifestyle is also essential for the child’s prompt recovery.
John Alen was born in 1971 and is a doctor in the healthcare and psychology fields with many years of experience. He is currently working at easyhealthylive.com, a leading health and psychology blog. Having studied at Y1 National Medical University named after IM Sechenov, John Alen is using his knowledge and experience to help improve the physical and mental health of people in the United States.
