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Epstein’s pearls are one of the mysterious diseases that may appear in children in the oral cavity. In this article, we will look at this rare problem, understand its causes, and discuss effective treatments.
Epstein’s pearls, also known as gingival cysts, are small, vesicular lesions in the gum tissue that may appear in infants and young children. They are usually small, white or transparent and resemble pearls – hence their name. Epstein pearls usually occur in children under 1 year of age and are the result of unusual development of gum tissue.
The causes of Epstein’s pearls are not fully understood, but there are some theories about it. One of them is that they occur as a result of blocked mucous glands in the baby’s gums. Another theory is that they are the result of hormonal changes that occur in infants’ bodies after birth. Additionally, Epstein pearls can be inherited, which may affect their occurrence in some children.
Epstein’s pearls are often confused with other oral diseases, such as canker sores or thrush. However, these conditions have different causes and symptoms. Canker sores, for example, are painful sores in the mouth that are unrelated to Epstein’s pearls. Thrush, in turn, is a fungal infection of the oral mucosa, so it is not the same as gum cysts. Therefore, it is important for the doctor to accurately diagnose the problem and determine appropriate therapy.
Epstein pearls usually do not require treatment because they disappear on their own as the baby grows. However, if the lesions are large or cause pain to the child, surgical removal may be considered. In such a case, consultation with a dentist or pediatric surgeon is necessary.
If you notice any disturbing changes in your child’s oral cavity, it is always worth consulting a doctor. Regardless of the cause of the problem, proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to the child’s health.
If you are interested in children’s oral health, we also recommend reading our articles on oral hygiene in infants and how to care for your child’s teeth. Remember that a healthy mouth is key to your child’s overall health.