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What's an Eruption Cyst and How Can It Affect Your Child?

Dentist Blog

It's interesting how two similar events can result in two different responses. When a permanent adult tooth is lost, it's upsetting. But when a baby tooth is lost, it's an exciting time for children and parents alike. That lost baby tooth creates a gap, which will soon be filled by the permanent tooth, erupting upwards to take its place. So why does your child seem to be growing a pimple where that adult tooth should be?

An Eruption Cyst

While the growth that has developed over the missing baby tooth resembles a pimple, it's in fact a cyst, or an eruption cyst to be precise. Regardless of the location in someone's body, a cyst isn't exactly welcome. There's no need for concern, as eruption cysts aren't particularly serious.

A Localised Inflammation

The cyst itself has formed in the soft tissue immediately above the empty dental socket. It's an extremely localised inflammation, and it can vary in colour. It might be a similar shade to the surrounding mucosa, it might have a blue tint or can look white—much like a pimple.

Don't Pop the Cyst

Because it can closely resemble a pimple, you might be tempted to ask your child to hold their mouth open while you pop it. This is unwise, as nonprofessional intervention can lead to an infection. While this infection is unlikely to be problematic, it's best to avoid the possibility. So what needs to be done?

Wait and See

In many instances, you're better off doing nothing. The eruption cyst will often rupture of its own accord. This can result in some brief discomfort, which will subside quickly. This discomfort is generally due to the taste of the contents of the cysts, which is a protein-rich exudate, or to put it more simply—pus. This tastes extremely unpleasant, and your child should rinse their mouth immediately after the eruption cyst ruptures. 

After Rupturing

The site of the cyst will heal of its own accord, although your child should modify their diet for a brief period while this happens. Anything too spicy or acidic can aggravate the wound. A salt water rinse can be helpful. Also avoid mouthwash, as this can also aggravate the site of the cyst. This details the best way to deal with a ruptured cyst, but what should you do if it doesn't actually rupture?

When Treatment Is Needed

If the cyst continues to grow, you should schedule an appointment with your child's dentist. There are unlikely to be any issues, but the sheer presence of the cyst and the fact that it's stretching the tissues of the mucosa means it can become uncomfortable. Your dentist will also need to ensure that it's not something else entirely, such as a dental abscess, but this is unlikely without secondary symptoms. Your dentist will simply manually rupture the cyst before applying a topical antiseptic treatment. 

A pimple-like growth where your child's adult tooth will grow is usually a minor issue, but be sure to monitor the situation so you can seek treatment as needed.

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17 February 2021