Stomatitis is a common disease in children. It is an inflammation in the mouth and can cause pain and discomfort. It can appear in different forms and locations, including the tongue, gums, lips, and cheeks.

In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about stomatitis in children, from its causes and symptoms to its treatment and prevention.

Causes of Stomatitis in Children

Stomatitis can be caused by different factors, including:.

Viral infections: Herpes simplex virus (HSV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and Coxsackie virus are common viral infections that cause stomatitis.
Bacterial infections: Streptococcus and other bacteria can infect the mouth and cause stomatitis.
Fungal infections: Candida albicans is a type of fungus that can cause stomatitis.
Allergic reactions: Certain foods, medications, and oral care products can trigger an allergic reaction and cause stomatitis.
Mechanical injuries: Accidental bites, burns, and irritations in the mouth can cause stomatitis.

Symptoms of Stomatitis in Children

The symptoms of stomatitis can vary depending on its cause and severity. The common symptoms of stomatitis in children include:.

Pain: Stomatitis can cause pain and discomfort in the mouth, which can make it difficult for children to eat, drink, and speak.
Sores: Stomatitis can cause red or white sores in the mouth, which can be painful or itchy.
Blisters: Some types of stomatitis can cause blisters in the mouth, which can be painful and can break open.
Swelling: Stomatitis can cause swelling in the mouth and make it difficult for children to swallow or breathe.
Fever: Stomatitis can cause a low-grade fever in some children.

Types of Stomatitis in Children

There are different types of stomatitis in children that can appear in different forms and locations. The common types of stomatitis in children include:.

Aphthous stomatitis: Also known as canker sores, aphthous stomatitis is a common type of stomatitis that appears as small, painful sores in the mouth, usually on the tongue, lips, or cheeks. It can be caused by stress, injury, or certain foods.
Herpetic stomatitis: Caused by the herpes simplex virus, herpetic stomatitis appears as small, fluid-filled blisters in the mouth, usually on the gums, tongue, or inside the cheeks. It can be highly contagious.
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease: Caused by the Coxsackie virus, hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a viral infection that can cause fever, sores in the mouth, and a rash on the hands, feet, and buttocks.
Candidiasis: Also known as thrush, candidiasis is a fungal infection that causes white patches in the mouth, usually on the tongue and inner cheeks. It can be caused by antibiotics, oral corticosteroids, or a weakened immune system.

Treatment of Stomatitis in Children

The treatment of stomatitis in children depends on its cause and severity. The common treatments for stomatitis in children include:.

Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce the pain and discomfort of stomatitis in children.
Mouth rinses: Mouth rinses that contain antiseptics, anesthetics, or anti-inflammatory agents can help relieve the symptoms of stomatitis and promote healing.
Antiviral drugs: In case of herpetic stomatitis, antiviral drugs can help reduce the severity and duration of the infection.
Antifungal drugs: In case of candidiasis, antifungal drugs can help eliminate the fungal infection.
Hydration and nutrition: Children with stomatitis should drink plenty of fluids and eat soft, bland foods that are easy to swallow and digest.