White Spots on Newborn Gums and Palate: Causes and Concerns

White spots on an infant's gums and upper palate?

The white spots on a newborn's gums and palate, which are confirmed not to be oral thrush, and some of which are raised, could be a condition known as Epstein pearls.
Epstein pearls are small, harmless cysts that can appear in the mouths of newborns and are typically found along the gum line or on the roof of the mouth.
They usually resolve on their own without treatment.
However, it's always best to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist for an accurate diagnosis and peace of mind.

Evita, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/20

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

White spots on the gums and the upper palate of infants are typically a type of dental lamina cyst, which is a keratinized epithelial cyst.
They appear as small, granular white nodules, measuring approximately 1-3 mm in size, and are usually found on the upper jaw and the gingival mucosa of both the upper and lower dental arches.
These cysts do not cause any discomfort and do not require any treatment.
They generally resolve on their own as the child grows.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2006/10/20

More Info

When it comes to the appearance of white spots on a newborn's gums and palate, there are several potential causes that parents and caregivers should be aware of. It's important to approach this issue with a clear understanding of what these white spots could signify, as well as the appropriate steps to take if they are observed.

One common cause of white spots in the oral cavity of newborns is the presence of oral thrush, which is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast. While you mentioned that you are certain it is not thrush, it is worth noting that thrush can sometimes present as white patches that may appear raised or have a cottage cheese-like texture. This condition is typically accompanied by discomfort or difficulty feeding, so if the baby is feeding well and appears comfortable, it may not be thrush.

Another possibility is milia, which are small, white cysts that can appear on the gums or palate of newborns. These are harmless and usually resolve on their own without any treatment. Milia are caused by trapped keratin beneath the skin and are quite common in infants.

Additionally, epstein pearls are another benign condition that can cause white spots in the mouth of newborns. Epstein pearls are small, white cysts that can appear on the gums and the roof of the mouth. They are also harmless and typically disappear within a few weeks after birth.

If the white spots are raised and appear to be more than just simple cysts, it could be indicative of gingival hyperplasia, which is an overgrowth of gum tissue. This condition can occur due to various factors, including hormonal changes or certain medications, although it is less common in newborns.

In some cases, white spots could also be related to teething, as the process of teeth breaking through the gums can sometimes cause localized swelling and changes in the appearance of the gums. However, teething typically does not cause distinct white spots.

While most of these conditions are benign and self-limiting, it is crucial to monitor the baby for any additional symptoms. If the white spots are accompanied by signs of discomfort, difficulty feeding, fever, or if they persist beyond a few weeks, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist. They can perform a thorough examination and provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment if necessary.

In summary, while white spots on a newborn's gums and palate can be concerning for parents, many of the common causes are benign and self-resolving. Keeping an eye on the baby's overall health and comfort is essential, and seeking medical advice when in doubt is always a prudent approach.

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