At first glance, an Epstein pearl can look like a tooth starting to come in early. But it’s actually a small, harmless cyst that commonly appears in newborns.
Since it can resemble a tooth, it is easy to mistake it for something else, especially with conflicting advice from family, friends, and online sources.
Below, we separate common myths from the facts so you can better understand what Epstein pearls are and what you can expect.
Common Myths About Epstein Pearls
Let’s look at some of the most common misconceptions about Epstein pearls and the facts behind them.
Myth #1: Epstein Pearls Are a Sign of Infection
Fact: Epstein pearls are harmless cysts, not infections. They are filled with keratin, a protein naturally found in your skin, hair, and nails.
These cysts form during fetal development when small bits of tissue become trapped under the gums or along the roof of the mouth. They are not caused by bacteria, do not contain pus, and are not a sign of illness elsewhere in your baby’s body.
Myth #2: Epstein Pearls Cause Pain
Fact: Epstein pearls rarely cause any discomfort in babies. Most babies with Epstein pearls feed, sleep, and go about their normal activities without any signs of pain.
Because the bumps are not inflamed or irritated, they do not cause the fussiness or increased drooling commonly associated with teething. If your baby seems uncomfortable, the cause is likely something other than the Epstein pearls.
Myth #3: Epstein Pearls Need Medical Treatment
Fact: Epstein pearls usually disappear on their own within a few weeks after birth, although some might last a bit longer. As the outer layer of gum tissue naturally sheds, the small cysts open and gradually go away.
No medications or procedures are needed because they do not speed up the process. During a routine exam, your pediatrician or pediatric dentist will typically identify the bumps and let you know what you need to do, if any.
Myth #4: Parents Should Pop or Remove Epstein Pearls
Fact: You should not try to pop, scrape, or remove Epstein pearls at home. A newborn’s gums are delicate, and attempting to remove the bumps can damage the tissue, cause bleeding, or introduce bacteria into the area.
If a bump looks unusual or you are unsure what you are seeing, contact your pediatrician or pediatric dentist instead of trying to remove it yourself.
Myth #5: Epstein Pearls Affect Feeding
Fact: Most babies feed normally even when Epstein pearls are present. The bumps are not painful and are not located where the tongue and lips create the seal needed for breastfeeding or bottle feeding, so they rarely interfere with latching or sucking.
If your baby has feeding difficulties, such as a poor latch or slow weight gain, the cause is more likely to be something else, such as a tongue-tie or reflux.
Read more: Tongue- and Lip-Ties: Addressing Common Misconceptions
Myth #6: Epstein Pearls Mean Something Is Wrong With Your Baby
Fact: Epstein pearls are one of the most common findings during a newborn oral exam. Many newborns have Epstein pearls, or a closely related type of oral cyst, at birth.
They are a normal part of development and are not linked to any underlying medical condition. They also do not affect your baby’s growth, development, or early milestones.
Myth #7: Epstein Pearls Are Natal Teeth
Fact: Epstein pearls and natal teeth are not the same. Natal teeth are fully formed teeth that are present at birth or erupt within the first month of life. They are usually found on the lower gums and may be loose or cause difficulty during breastfeeding.
Epstein pearls, on the other hand, appear as round, white or yellowish bumps and are not made of tooth material. If you are unsure which one you are seeing, talk to your pediatrician or pediatric dentist.
What to Remember and When to Call Your Pediatric Dentist
Epstein pearls are a common finding in newborns and, in most cases, disappear on their own within a few weeks. They are harmless, do not cause pain, do not require treatment, and are not a sign that your baby’s teeth are coming in early. The most important thing you can do is leave them alone.
If you notice a bump in your baby’s mouth and are unsure if it is an Epstein pearl, thrush, or a natal tooth, contact your pediatric dentist for an evaluation. They can examine the area and determine what is causing the bump.
If you have questions about Epstein pearls or any other concerns about your baby’s oral health, contact our pediatric dental office in Lafayette, LA.
We’ve been helping families in the Acadiana area for over 15 years, and we are happy to examine your baby’s mouth or answer your questions.