Black and blue bumps aren’t just for skinned knees. If your tot is teething, you may notice a bruise-colored bump on your child’s gums. Parental instincts may tell you to think the worst, but that black-and-blue bump is likely nothing to worry about. The discoloration is probably an eruption cyst or hematoma—a normal reaction to a new tooth emerging from the gums.
Now, do you know that they’re normal? Here’s what to know about these not-so-scary cysts:
What causes these cysts?
As teeth grow, they move through the bone, into the gums, and finally into your child’s mouth. An eruption cyst occurs when the tooth has moved through the bone but is still under the gum’s surface. Sometimes fluid and blood can accumulate between the tooth and gums, forming a cyst. Although cysts have bruise-like colors, they’re usually not painful for children.
Do all babies get cysts?
Both boys and girls can get cysts, but their exact prevalence is unknown. Many parents don’t even notice that their child has an eruption cyst.
Do you need to treat cysts?
Treatment isn’t necessary for eruption cysts, as they usually go away on their own. The tooth breaks through within a few days, causing the cyst to disappear. However, if the cyst is still there after a week and/or starts to bleed, your dentist may make a small incision into the cyst to move things along. You can also try gently massaging the area with a clean finger or letting your child chew on cold food. If your baby has a fever or facial swelling, check with your dentist to make sure it’s not a tooth infection.
Eruption cysts may not be anything to worry about, but teething can be tough on tots (and parents). If your little one is experiencing teething torture, try these tips to keep you and your baby happy.