Discovering a white spot on a baby’s gums can be concerning. While often harmless and self-resolving, some spots may indicate a condition requiring medical attention. Understanding their characteristics helps parents determine the appropriate course of action.
Harmless White Spots on Baby Gums
Many white spots on a baby’s gums are benign. A common observation is a white or translucent area where a tooth is preparing to emerge, signaling teething. This is the developing tooth crown visible through the gum tissue. The gum may appear swollen or raised, forming a small, firm bump as the tooth pushes towards the surface.
Tiny, harmless cysts known as Epstein pearls and Bohn’s nodules are frequently found in newborns. Epstein pearls are small, white or yellowish bumps typically located along the gums or on the roof of the mouth, formed from trapped keratin. Bohn’s nodules, which appear similar, are usually found on the gum line, often on the upper jaw, and are believed to be remnants of salivary gland tissue. Both types are small, about 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter, and have a firm texture, often leading parents to mistake them for emerging teeth. They are common and typically disappear on their own within a few weeks to three months due to normal feeding friction.
Another common explanation for white patches is milk residue. Milk can leave a temporary white coating on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks after feeding. This residue can be gently wiped away with a soft, damp cloth or gauze. If the white disappears easily and the underlying tissue looks pink and healthy, it is likely just milk. Unlike other conditions, milk residue does not cause discomfort or affect the baby’s feeding behavior.
Oral Thrush: A Fungal Infection
White patches on a baby’s gums might indicate oral thrush, a common fungal infection. This condition is caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a yeast naturally present in the body. Babies are particularly susceptible because their developing immune systems may not effectively control yeast growth.
Oral thrush manifests as creamy white or grayish-white patches resembling cottage cheese. These patches can appear on the gums, tongue, inner cheeks, and roof of the mouth. A distinguishing feature is that they are difficult to wipe away; attempting to do so often reveals red, inflamed, or bleeding areas underneath. The infection can cause discomfort, leading to fussiness during feedings or a reluctance to nurse due to soreness.
Oral thrush can spread to the diaper area, resulting in a bright red, shiny diaper rash with distinct borders. Factors contributing to thrush include recent antibiotic use in either the baby or the breastfeeding parent, as antibiotics can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria, allowing yeast to proliferate. A baby with thrush can also pass the infection to a breastfeeding parent’s nipples, causing pain and discomfort.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
While many white spots are benign, parents should seek medical advice in certain situations. Consult a pediatrician if the white spots do not disappear, worsen, or spread to other areas of the mouth. Persistence or spread could indicate a condition requiring specific treatment.
Any associated symptoms also warrant medical evaluation. These include fever, poor feeding, increased fussiness, or signs of pain like difficulty swallowing. If the baby is unusually irritable or refusing to feed, have them examined by a healthcare provider.
If oral thrush is suspected, especially if the white patches cannot be easily wiped away and are accompanied by feeding difficulties, a pediatrician visit is recommended. While some mild cases of thrush may resolve on their own, medical treatment with antifungal medication is often necessary to clear the infection and alleviate discomfort. If a parent feels uncertain or concerned about any white spots in their baby’s mouth, consulting their pediatrician is always prudent for accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.