Question

I just found that there are several small white bumps on the outside of my baby’s large molar’s gingiva, and they are on both sides. What could be the cause, and what kind of assistance do I need?

Answer

These are keratinized particles formed from undigested enamel cell remnants that adhere to the gingiva during the process of a baby’s tooth growth. They are not teeth. As the baby suckles milk, the gingiva rubs against the nipple, and after some time, these “milk teeth” will fall off on their own. It is recommended not to handle these small bumps yourself, as a baby’s gingival mucosa is very delicate, there are bacteria in the mouth at all times, and saliva secretion is low. Saliva’s inhibitory effect on bacteria and its cleaning function for the mouth are poor, making it easy to get an infection. Picking or rubbing off these “milk teeth” may cause infection, leading to high fever, sudden redness and swelling of the face, gingival inflammation, and even acute maxillary osteomyelitis. Infants with weak constitutions may also develop septicemia, causing great pain and even life-threatening situations for the baby. Therefore, do not handle these bumps yourself; they will fall off on their own as time goes by.