Black or Green Spots on Your Baby's Gums: What to Do?

Black spots on a baby's gums?

Hello Doctor: My daughter (1 year and 5 months old) recently developed a green or black spot on the gum of one of her lower incisors.
It looks similar to food particles, but the location is deep in the gingival sulcus (clearly visible from the front).
I'm puzzled about how food could get stuck so deep.
During today's visit, the doctor mentioned that it doesn't appear to be food debris, but rather looks like an injury, and it doesn't resemble melanin deposition.
The doctor suggested monitoring it further, but I'm concerned that if it is indeed food residue and is not removed, it could affect the surrounding gum tissue and lead to inflammation.
Should I seek another medical opinion, or should I follow the doctor's advice and observe it for a while longer?

Xiao Pingguo, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/15

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If food debris gets trapped in the gingival sulcus, it can lead to gingival inflammation and pain over time.
Therefore, it is important to monitor the gums for signs of inflammation.
If any inflammatory symptoms are present, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/12/15

More Info

When it comes to the appearance of black or green spots on your baby's gums, it can understandably cause concern for parents. In your case, the green or black spot on your daughter's gum, particularly in the area of the gingival sulcus (the space between the gum and the tooth), could be attributed to several factors.
Firstly, it's essential to recognize that the gums can sometimes show discoloration due to various reasons, including food particles, trauma, or even pigmentation changes. Given that your daughter is 1 year and 5 months old, she is likely exploring a variety of foods, and it is not uncommon for small food particles to get lodged in the gum area, especially if she is consuming items like seaweed or other fibrous foods. However, if the dentist has assessed that it does not appear to be food debris but rather a potential injury, this is a crucial observation.

Injuries to the gums can occur from various activities, such as biting down on hard objects, falls, or even aggressive brushing. If the spot is indeed a result of trauma, it may heal on its own without any intervention. However, it is essential to monitor the area for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. If the spot changes in appearance, becomes painful, or if your child exhibits signs of discomfort, it would be prudent to return to the dentist for a follow-up examination.

Regarding your concern about whether the presence of food particles could lead to inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue, it is a valid point. Food debris can indeed lead to plaque buildup, which can cause gingivitis if not removed. However, if the dentist has ruled out food particles and suggested observation, it may be best to follow that advice while remaining vigilant.
In terms of oral hygiene, ensure that your daughter’s teeth and gums are being cleaned properly. At her age, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste can help maintain her oral health. Encourage her to rinse her mouth with water after eating, especially if she consumes sticky or fibrous foods.
If you notice any changes in the spot, or if it persists beyond a few weeks without improvement, seeking a second opinion from another dental professional may provide additional peace of mind. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your child's health.

In summary, while the green or black spot on your daughter's gums could be a benign issue related to food or minor trauma, careful observation is key. Maintain good oral hygiene practices, monitor for any changes, and do not hesitate to seek further medical advice if you feel it is necessary. Your child's health and comfort should always be the priority.

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