Swollen Gums in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Safe Treatments

The gums are the soft tissues in the mouth, and they can sometimes become swollen under certain conditions in children. One of the most common causes is teething. However, gum swelling can also result from other factors such as injury or infection.

While gum swelling due to teething is usually normal and does not require special treatment, in some cases it may indicate an underlying medical problem that needs professional attention.

Here’s, according to Healthline, a look at the main causes, symptoms, and safe treatments for swollen gums in children, and when to see a dentist.

🦷 Causes and Symptoms of Swollen Gums in Children

Swollen gums are a common oral problem characterized by soft, reddish, tender, and painful gum tissue. Several factors can cause this condition, including:

Teething:
Teething begins when baby teeth start to appear, usually between 5 months and 3 years of age. As the teeth push through the gums, mild swelling and discomfort are common. Later, around 6–7 years, baby teeth fall out to make way for permanent teeth.
Gingivitis (Gum Inflammation):
Gingivitis causes swelling, redness, and easy bleeding of the gums. It is often linked to poor oral hygiene or excessive consumption of sugary or acidic foods. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious gum disease (periodontitis).
Dental Abscess:
This condition appears as a pus-filled lump near a tooth, caused by a bacterial infection. Children may develop abscesses if they neglect brushing or don’t follow proper dental cleaning routines.

Healthy gums should appear firm and pink. When swollen, they may look red, enlarged, or puffy, which is a clear sign that your child needs dental attention.

🧂 Safe and Effective Home Remedies for Swollen Gums

1. Salt Water Rinse

Salt water is a natural antiseptic that helps reduce bacteria and soothe pain and inflammation.

Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
Have your child swish the solution gently in their mouth for a few seconds, making sure it reaches all areas, then spit it out (do not swallow).
Repeat twice daily until the pain eases.

2. Cold Compress (Ice Pack)

The cooling sensation from ice can help reduce swelling and numb pain.

Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth and gently press it against the swollen area.
Keep it on for several minutes until your child feels relief.
The cold helps slow blood flow to the area, reducing pain and throbbing.

3. Proper Oral Hygiene

Continue brushing your child’s teeth twice a day and encourage daily flossing (if age-appropriate).

If gum inflammation persists, visit a dentist. Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar usually resolves the problem quickly.

4. Staying Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and stimulates saliva production, which naturally protects gums.

Avoid using mouthwashes that contain hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine in young children, as these can irritate sensitive gums.

5. Watching Their Diet

When your child has swollen gums, it’s important to avoid sugary foods and drinks, which promote bacterial growth and plaque buildup.

Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support gum health. Avoid sticky snacks like toffee, caramel popcorn, or gummy candies, which tend to cling to teeth and worsen gum irritation.

👩‍⚕️ When to See a Dentist

While home remedies can help relieve pain, if your child’s gum swelling does not improve or gets worse, visit a dentist immediately.

The dentist will:

Conduct a thorough oral examination
Identify the underlying cause
Recommend appropriate treatment — such as filling, extraction, cleaning, or root canal therapy (depending on severity)
Prescribe pain relievers or antibiotics if needed

After your child’s gums heal, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential.

Regular dental checkups every six months are highly recommended to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy.