Swollen Gums In Infants And Children

Swollen gums or gingival swelling are abnormally enlarged gums, bulging, or protruding. When plaque and tartar stick to the teeth under the gums, bacteria growths and produce chemicals and toxins that the body does not identify. Red, swollen gums that bleed when touched may be a symptom of developing a general infection around the nose and mouth if exposed to the herpes simplex virus (cold sores).Though, swollen gums are normal during infants tooth eruption and the swollen part is usually firm. However, it is not normal if the swollen gum turns red or blue. In such case, parents must bring their children to see the dentist. Swollen gums can come and go periodically or can sometimes be a constant problem, slowly increasing in pain and the area that is swollen. In some cases, swollen gums will cause the gums to start separating from the tooth.