Ear Digging and Gum Issues in Toddlers

Ear cleaning

Hello Dr.
Lin,
I would like to ask you a few questions:
1.
My daughter is currently 1 year and 3 months old.
Recently, over the past week or two, I've noticed that she sometimes uses her index finger to dig in her ears.
I'm not sure if it's because her ears are itchy or if she's just doing it for fun.
How should I handle this situation?
2.
In the past week or two, I've also noticed that there are two swollen gum tissues behind her lower left gums (in the area where molars would emerge).
She bit into a cookie the day before yesterday and it bled.
Is this a sign that her molars are starting to come in, causing the gums to protrude? Since there was bleeding, should I take her to see a doctor? (For your reference, my daughter currently has four teeth on the top: two incisors and two canines; and five teeth on the bottom: two incisors, two canines, and one molar on the right side.)
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

Xiao Fen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/10

Dr. Lin Huizhen reply Pediatrics

Tainan Hospital Pediatrics Dr.
Lin Huizhen
Dear Xiaofen,
1.
Sometimes children dig their ears mainly because there is a buildup of earwax, which feels uncomfortable to them.
Only a small portion of cases are due to foreign objects or inflammation.
If you are concerned, you can take your child to an otolaryngologist for an examination.

2.
The situation you described is generally related to the development of teeth.
If there is bleeding from the gums, unless the wound is large, the bleeding usually stops quickly, and the oral cavity has a strong healing capacity, so it should heal soon.
Therefore, general observation is sufficient unless the granulation tissue continues to grow, in which case you may need to take your child for a check-up.

Tainan Hospital wishes you good health and all the best.

Reply Date: 2006/02/10

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your questions regarding your daughter's ear digging and gum issues. It's great that you're attentive to her health and development. Let's address your concerns one by one.

1. Ear Digging: It's quite common for toddlers to explore their bodies, including their ears. They may dig in their ears out of curiosity, boredom, or because they feel an itch or discomfort. Here are a few things to consider:
- Itching or Discomfort: If your daughter is frequently digging at her ears, it could be a sign of an ear infection, wax buildup, or even allergies. If she seems to be in discomfort, or if you notice any unusual discharge, redness, or swelling, it would be wise to consult a pediatrician or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can examine her ears to rule out any infections or other issues.

- Curiosity: If there are no signs of infection or discomfort, she may simply be exploring. In this case, gently redirecting her attention to another activity can help. You can also explain to her that ears are sensitive and should not be poked or prodded.

- Hygiene: It's important to avoid inserting anything into her ears, including cotton swabs, as this can push wax further in or cause injury. Regular check-ups with her pediatrician can help monitor her ear health.

2. Gum Issues: The presence of swollen gum tissue, especially in the area where molars are expected to emerge, is not uncommon in toddlers. Here’s what you should know:
- Teething: The swollen areas you mentioned could very well be related to teething, particularly as your daughter is in the process of getting her molars. This can cause discomfort, swelling, and even bleeding if the gums are irritated.
- Injury: If she bit her gum while eating and it bled, it could be a minor injury from the pressure of biting down on something hard. Monitor the area for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.

- When to See a Doctor: If the swelling persists, if there’s significant bleeding, or if she shows signs of pain or discomfort (such as refusing to eat or being unusually fussy), it would be advisable to consult a pediatric dentist. They can assess her gums and ensure that everything is developing normally.

In summary, while both ear digging and gum swelling can be common in toddlers, they can also indicate underlying issues that may require medical attention. Regular check-ups with your pediatrician will help ensure that any potential problems are caught early. If you notice any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your child's health.
I hope this information helps you navigate these concerns with your daughter. Best wishes for her health and well-being!

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