Thumb-sucking gets plenty of attention from parents and pediatricians alike, but gum picking? Not so much. Yet as pediatric dental specialists, we see this behavior often.
Kids pick at their gums for various reasons, and while it might seem like a minor quirk, understanding what’s behind it can help you address the habit before it turns into something more serious.
This guide breaks down the common causes of gum picking, explains when it becomes a problem, and gives you some ways to help your child stop.
Common Reasons Why Kids Pick Their Gums
Boredom or Sensory Seeking
Sometimes gum picking is just something to do. Kids get bored during car rides, while watching TV, or when they’re sitting quietly, and their hands wander to their mouths. It’s similar to doodling on paper or tapping fingers on a desk.
There’s also a sensory component. The texture of gums can be genuinely interesting to a curious child. The ridges, the softness, the way it feels under their fingernail – all of these sensations can draw them back to the behavior repeatedly. For children who seek out different textures and sensations throughout their day, gum picking becomes another way to explore their environment.
Anxiety, Stress, or Nervousness
Gum picking also often serves as a self-soothing mechanism, much like nail-biting or hair-twirling. When children face stress from things like a new school, problems at home, or academic pressure, they might develop repetitive behaviors to manage their feelings.
You might notice the picking increases during homework time, before tests, or during transitions like bedtime. These patterns can help you identify if anxiety or stress is fueling the habit. Kids don’t always have the words to express what they’re feeling, so their bodies find other ways to cope.
Oral Health Issues
Sometimes there’s an actual physical reason for the picking. A loose tooth that’s not quite ready to come out can be annoying. Food particles wedged between teeth can create an uncomfortable sensation.
Early signs of gingivitis, such as sore, swollen, or tender gums, can also prompt a child to poke and prod at the area.
Children might not recognize these sensations as problems that need addressing. Instead, they simply respond to the discomfort by picking, which unfortunately can make the underlying issue worse.
A Developing Habit
Some behaviors don’t need an active reason to continue. A habit that started during teething, for example, might persist long after those baby teeth have fully emerged. The brain creates pathways that make certain actions automatic, and breaking those pathways takes conscious effort and time.
What began as a response to a specific trigger can become so ingrained that your child picks at their gums without any discomfort, stress, or boredom present. The behavior has simply become part of their routine.
Neurodiversity and Sensory Needs
For some children, particularly those who are neurodivergent (including children on the autism spectrum), repetitive actions help with self-regulation and processing their environment. This type of behavior, often called stimming, can be genuinely calming and help them manage sensory input.
The consistent texture and pressure from gum picking might provide a predictable and soothing sensation for a child who feels overwhelmed or under-stimulated.
Read more: How to Prepare for a Dental Visit for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder
When Gum Picking Becomes a Problem
Damage to Gum Tissue
Repeated picking can lead to gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth and exposes more of the tooth surface or even the root. This creates sensitivity and increases vulnerability to decay. Inflammation and bleeding can also develop, signaling that the tissue is irritated and damaged.
Read more: 5 Early Signs of Gum Disease Parents in Acadiana Shouldn’t Ignore
Increased Risk of Infection
Fingers carry a lot of bacteria. When kids pick at their gums, especially if they’ve created small wounds or openings in the tissue, they introduce bacteria that can cause infections. These infections can be painful and may require professional treatment.
Dental Health Issues
Exposed tooth roots from receding gums are more sensitive to temperature changes and sweet or acidic foods. The roots don’t have the protective enamel that the crown has, so they’re more susceptible to cavities and decay.
Social Implications
As children get older and become more aware of social norms, a gum-picking habit can lead to self-consciousness. They might feel embarrassed if their peers notice or comment on the behavior.
When to Worry
You should schedule a visit with your dentist or pediatrician if you notice:
Physical Signs:
- Frequent bleeding, redness, or swelling of the gums
- Visible changes in the gumline, particularly recession
- Complaints of mouth pain, tooth sensitivity, or persistent sores
Behavioral Signs:
- The habit is becoming more frequent or aggressive
- It interferes with daily activities like eating or speaking
- Your child seems unable to stop even when they want to
Strategies to Help Your Child Stop Gum Picking
Identify the Trigger
Pay attention to when the picking happens. Try asking yourself: does it happen during car rides when they’re bored, before tests when they’re anxious, or while watching TV when their hands are idle?
Offer Gentle Reminders and Redirection
Harsh corrections usually don’t work and can actually make the behavior worse. Instead, use a gentle code phrase like “hands down” or give a soft touch on their arm as a reminder. Then redirect their hands to something else, maybe a fidget toy, stress ball, or piece of soft fabric they can manipulate.
Address Oral Discomfort
Make sure they don’t have underlying oral issues causing discomfort. A dental checkup can help rule out problems like cavities, gum inflammation, or orthodontic issues that might be contributing to the picking.
Talk About Feelings
If you suspect anxiety or stress, start a conversation without judgment. “I’ve noticed you touch your mouth quite a bit lately. Is anything bothering you?” Sometimes just having an outlet to discuss their worries can reduce the need for physical coping mechanisms.
Reinforce Positive Behavior
Notice and praise the times they’re not picking. “You’ve been doing a great job keeping your hands busy with your blocks today!” Positive reinforcement tends to be more effective than constant correction.
Understanding why your child picks their gums gives you the tools to address it with empathy rather than frustration. Most cases resolve with patience, redirection, and addressing any underlying causes.
Our team at Lafayette Pediatric Dentistry is here to support you with any concerns about your child’s dental health. We’re proud to serve families throughout the greater Acadiana area with comprehensive pediatric dental care in a stress-free, caring environment. Contact us with any questions or to schedule a visit. We’re here to help with your child’s oral health needs.