Teething is one of those milestones that every parent knows is coming, but it can still feel a little overwhelming when it finally arrives. The nonstop drooling, fussiness, and chewing on absolutely everything in sight can be a lot to get through. Then you notice a tiny bit of blood on your baby’s gums, and it’s natural to feel concerned.
Seeing blood on your baby’s gums can raise a lot of questions, especially if it’s your first time dealing with teething. In this post, we’ll break down why bleeding may occur, what normal teething looks like, and when it’s time to call your child’s dentist.
Can Teething Cause Bleeding Gums?
The short answer is yes, it can. As a tooth begins to push through the gum tissue, it creates pressure and irritation in the surrounding area. In some babies, small blood blisters may form on the surface of the gums where the tooth is emerging.
If one of these blisters ruptures, which often happens on its own, you may notice a small amount of blood or a bluish-purple spot that looks similar to a bruise.
The new tooth can also have a sharp edge as it breaks through the gums. When your baby bites down, it may irritate or nick the gum tissue nearby, which can lead to minor bleeding.
Not every baby experiences bleeding during teething, and that’s normal too. Some babies get all of their teeth without any bleeding at all. Teething symptoms can also vary from one tooth to the next.
Read more: How to Soothe Your Baby During Teething (And Save Your Sanity!)
What Teething Symptoms Usually Look Like
Here are some of the most common teething symptoms you may notice:
Drooling
Often a lot of it. Teething increases saliva production, and babies have not yet learned to swallow saliva efficiently. During this stage, you may find yourself reaching for drool bibs throughout the day.
Gum swelling
As a tooth begins to emerge, the surrounding gum tissue can become swollen and irritated. You may notice a raised, red, or slightly purple area where the tooth is pushing through.
Increased biting and chewing
Many babies chew on objects to relieve pressure in their gums. Teething toys, fingers, and even your shoulder may suddenly become favorite chewing targets.
Fussiness and trouble sleeping
Gum discomfort can feel more noticeable at night when there are fewer distractions. As new teeth come in, you may notice disrupted sleep and extra fussiness for a few days at a time.
Low-grade fever
Some babies develop a slight increase in temperature during teething. A high fever is not considered a typical teething symptom and should be discussed with your child’s doctor.
Loss of appetite
Sore gums can make feeding uncomfortable. As a result, your baby may show less interest in eating for a short period while a tooth is coming through.
Read more: How to Handle Biting While Breastfeeding a Teething Baby
When Should Parents Be Concerned?
Minor bleeding that occurs as a tooth is coming in is not usually a cause for concern. In many cases, it resolves within a day or two as the tooth continues to emerge and the surrounding tissue heals.
Contact your child’s dentist if the bleeding continues, seems excessive, or does not appear to be linked to a tooth breaking through the gums. A dental professional can evaluate the situation and determine whether further care is needed.
You should also contact your child’s dentist if bleeding occurs in an area where no tooth appears to be emerging. The same applies if the bleeding is accompanied by a high fever, significant swelling, or signs that your baby is in considerable discomfort. These symptoms may point to something other than normal teething and should be evaluated by a professional.
Bleeding gums are not one of the most common signs of teething. However, it can happen. Our pediatric dental team at Lafayette Pediatric Dentistry serves families in Lafayette, Broussard, Youngsville, Breaux Bridge, and the Greater Acadiana area.
We care for children throughout every stage of childhood, including the period when their first teeth come in. If you have any questions about your baby’s oral development, give us a call or schedule an appointment online.