Stomatitis is a common condition in children that affects the inside of the mouth. It can cause painful sores and uncomfortable symptoms that can make eating and drinking difficult.

Stomatitis can be caused by a variety of factors, but it is often a result of a viral or bacterial infection. In this article, we will explore the different types of stomatitis, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Types of Stomatitis

There are several types of stomatitis that can affect children. The most common types include:.

Herpetic Stomatitis

Herpetic stomatitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is a highly contagious infection that can cause painful sores in and around the mouth. The sores may also appear on the lips and the tongue.

Young children are most likely to get herpetic stomatitis, and it can be spread through contact with saliva or the sores themselves.

Aphthous Stomatitis

Aphthous stomatitis, also known as canker sores, is a common condition in children. It is characterized by small, painful sores that develop inside the mouth.

These sores can be white or yellow in color and can appear on the tongue, inside the cheeks, or on the roof of the mouth. The exact cause of aphthous stomatitis is unknown, but it is believed to be related to stress or a weakened immune system.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection that can cause stomatitis in children. It is highly contagious and is spread through contact with saliva, fluid from the sores, or feces.

Children with hand, foot, and mouth disease may develop painful ulcers or blisters in and around the mouth, as well as on the hands and feet.

Causes of Stomatitis

The exact cause of stomatitis can vary depending on the type of condition. However, some of the most common causes include:.

Viral Infections

Many cases of stomatitis in children are caused by viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus or hand, foot, and mouth disease. These viruses are highly contagious and can be spread through contact with bodily fluids.

Bacterial Infections

Stomatitis can also be caused by bacterial infections, such as strep throat or syphilis. These infections can affect the lining of the mouth and cause painful sores or ulcers to develop.

Autoimmune Disorders

Some autoimmune disorders, such as Crohn’s disease or lupus, can cause stomatitis. This is because the immune system attacks healthy cells in the mouth and causes inflammation and sores.

Environmental Factors

Certain environmental factors, such as stress or a poor diet, can contribute to stomatitis in children. These factors can weaken the immune system and make it more susceptible to infection.

Symptoms of Stomatitis

The symptoms of stomatitis can vary depending on the type of condition. However, some of the most common symptoms include:.

Painful Sores

Stomatitis can cause painful sores or ulcers to develop inside the mouth. These sores may be red, white, or yellow in color and can make it difficult to talk, eat, or drink.

Swollen Gums

Children with stomatitis may also experience swollen or inflamed gums. This can make it difficult to brush or floss their teeth.

Fever

Some children with stomatitis may experience a fever or other flu-like symptoms. This is especially true for viral infections like hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Treatment Options for Stomatitis

The treatment options for stomatitis will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. In most cases, stomatitis will resolve on its own within a few days to a week.

However, there are a few treatment options that can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing:.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Pain relief medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate the discomfort associated with stomatitis. These medications can be purchased over-the-counter at most drug stores.

Mouth Rinses

Mouth rinses or sprays that contain anesthetics or antiseptics can help reduce pain and inflammation in the mouth. These products can also help prevent infection and promote healing.

Some common mouth rinses that are effective for stomatitis include salt water, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda mixed with water.

Prescription Medications

In some cases, a child may need prescription medications to treat stomatitis. This is especially true for viral or bacterial infections.

Antiviral medications or antibiotics may be prescribed by a healthcare provider to help combat the infection and promote healing.

Preventing Stomatitis

There are a few things that parents can do to help prevent stomatitis in their children. These include:.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is key to preventing stomatitis. This includes brushing teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding sugary or acidic foods and drinks.

Wash Hands Frequently

Since many cases of stomatitis are caused by viral or bacterial infections, it’s important to wash hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs.

Parents should encourage children to wash their hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the restroom, or after being in contact with someone who is sick.

Avoid Contact with Sick People

Finally, parents should encourage their children to avoid contact with sick people, especially those who have symptoms of stomatitis or other contagious illnesses.

This can include staying home from school or other activities if they are feeling unwell.