Abundant stomatitis is a condition commonly found in children and adolescents. It refers to the inflammation of the gums, lips, tongue, and mouth.
The condition manifests itself with red, swollen gums that bleed easily, small white or yellowish sores in the mouth, and high fever. Abundant stomatitis is highly infectious and can spread rapidly from one person to another. It can make the child feel uncomfortable and can be painful if not treated on time.
Causes of Abundant Stomatitis in Children
Abundant stomatitis can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. The most common virus which can cause abundant stomatitis is the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). There are two types of herpes virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2.
HSV-1 is responsible for oral herpes, which can cause abundant stomatitis, while HSV-2 is responsible for genital herpes. Other viruses that can cause abundant stomatitis include Coxsackievirus and Epstein Barr virus.
Bacterial infections can also cause abundant stomatitis, and they are usually due to poor oral hygiene. The bacteria that commonly cause abundant stomatitis are Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Neisseria bacteria.
Abundant stomatitis can also be caused by a fungal infection called Candidiasis, which is commonly known as thrush.
Symptoms of Abundant Stomatitis in Children
The symptoms of abundant stomatitis are usually easy to identify. The most common symptoms include:.
- Red and swollen gums that are painful and bleed easily
- Small white or yellowish sores in the mouth
- High fever
- Bad breath
- Irritability and loss of appetite
- Drooling in young children
- Mouth ulcers on the roof of the mouth, throat, and tongue
Treatment for Abundant Stomatitis in Children
Treatment for abundant stomatitis depends on the cause of the disease. If it is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics are the best treatment option.
However, if abundant stomatitis is caused by a viral infection, antibiotics will not be of much help. Instead, antiviral medications such as Acyclovir can be used to treat the condition.
If a fungal infection such as Candidiasis is responsible for abundant stomatitis, then antifungal medication such as Nystatin can be used to treat the condition.
Dentists may also prescribe pain relievers, mouthwash, and fluocinonide ointment to help ease the pain and symptoms of abundant stomatitis.
Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing and treating abundant stomatitis. Parents should make sure that their children brush and floss their teeth regularly.
A balanced diet rich in nutritional elements such as vitamin C is also essential in preventing and treating abundant stomatitis. Parents should also make sure that their children avoid sharing utensils, food, and drinks, which can spread the disease from one person to another.
Preventing Abundant Stomatitis in Children
Preventing abundant stomatitis in children is possible by taking the following precautions:.
- Encourage children to brush their teeth twice daily and floss regularly.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks in your child’s diet.
- Make sure your child consumes a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Ensure that your child gets enough rest to boost their immunity.
- Teach children how to cover their mouth while sneezing or coughing.
- Encourage children to avoid sharing utensils, food, and drinks.
- Teach your child to wash their hands frequently, especially after using the washroom and before eating or brushing their teeth.
Conclusion
Abundant stomatitis is a common condition in children and adolescents, and it can be caused by viral, bacterial, and fungal infections.
The condition manifests itself with red, swollen gums that bleed easily, small white or yellowish sores in the mouth, and high fever. The best course of treatment for abundant stomatitis is antibiotics if caused by a bacterial infection, antiviral medications if caused by a viral infection, and antifungal medication if caused by a fungal infection.
Good oral hygiene and healthy eating habits are crucial in preventing and treating abundant stomatitis.