Also known as: periodontal disease, gingivitis, periodontitis, infected gums, gum abscess, localized gum infection, infected gum tissue, pus near the gums

Gum infection in children can cause swelling, redness, tenderness, and pain in one small area of the mouth or along a broader section of the gums. Some children describe a sore spot or pressure, while others may complain that brushing hurts, avoid chewing on one side, or seem unusually irritable. In some cases, a gum infection may also cause a bad taste in the mouth, bad breath, or visible drainage near the gumline.

This symptom often means bacteria have collected around the gums or near a tooth, leading to inflammation and infection in the surrounding tissue. Gum infections may develop from trapped food, plaque buildup, injury, or an infected tooth draining into the gums. While some infections begin as small, localized problems, they can worsen over time if left untreated. Prompt evaluation helps identify the source, relieve discomfort, and reduce the risk of spreading infection, facial swelling, or damage to nearby teeth and gum tissue.

Possible Causes of a Gum Infection

Gum infection is commonly associated with:

  • Plaque buildup or gingivitis – Plaque and bacteria collecting along the gumline can irritate the tissue and allow infection to develop, especially if inflammation is left untreated.

  • Food trapped beneath the gums – Food debris caught between teeth or under the gumline can create pressure, irritation, and a localized area where bacteria build up.

  • Infected tooth or dental abscess – Infection inside a tooth can spread into the surrounding gums, causing swelling, pain, and drainage near the affected area.

  • Mouth injury or irritated gum tissue – A cut, scrape, or repeated irritation to the gums can leave the tissue more vulnerable to bacterial infection.

  • Partially erupting tooth – When a tooth is coming in and the surrounding gum tissue is difficult to clean, bacteria can collect around the area and lead to localized infection.

Treatments for a Gum Infection

Depending on the cause of gum infection, treatment may include:

  • Exams & Cleanings – A dental exam helps identify whether the infection is coming from the gums themselves or from a nearby tooth, while professional cleaning can remove plaque and debris that may be contributing to the problem.
  • Baby Root Canals (Pulpotomy, aka Pulp Therapy) – If the gum infection is being caused by a deeply infected baby tooth, pulp therapy may remove the infected tissue inside the tooth and help resolve the surrounding gum inflammation.
  • Laser Dentistry – For certain soft-tissue concerns, laser dentistry may help treat infected or irritated gum tissue with a precise and gentle approach.
  • Emergency Dentistry – When gum infection is severe, painful, draining, or accompanied by swelling, emergency care can help address the source quickly and reduce the risk of the infection spreading.

When to See a Dentist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Has red, swollen, or painful gums that worsen or do not improve
  • Has pus, drainage, or a bump near the gums
  • Has a bad taste or bad breath along with gum tenderness
  • Has facial swelling, fever, or other signs the infection may be spreading

Related Symptoms

Concerned About a Gum Infection?

Gum infection is often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.