Should You Pop an Eruption Cyst?
When babies teethe or when older children's primary teeth are ready to erupt, they sometimes develop eruption cysts over the site where the tooth will come through. These cysts can look alarming; they often resemble a blue bruise on the gum filled with fluid.
As the cyst looks large and painful, you may be tempted to try to pop it with a sharp object like a needle to get rid of it. Why isn't this a good idea?
Eruption Cysts Typically Take Care of Themselves
Eruption cysts can look alarming, but they generally aren't harmful and don't cause any problems. These cysts form when fluid accumulates around the erupting tooth. Usually, when the tooth finally breaks through, the cyst will pop and disappear. Trying to pop the cyst yourself isn't actually helpful at all; trying to pop the cyst may turn into a distressing experience for your child. You may also make the cyst infected by trying to lance it. If the cyst does become infected, then your child may need a course of antibiotics to deal with the infection.
Eruption Cyst Problems Are Better Handled by a Dentist
While most eruption cysts usually take care of themselves, there are times when your child may have problems with a cyst. These problems are best dealt with by your dentist.
For example, the cyst may become infected on its own. If the cyst suddenly looks yellow or has yellow patches on it, then this may be a sign that it has become infected. The cyst and the area around it may also look more red and swollen than before. It may throb and hurt.
In some cases, children may find that the cyst interferes with eating. Some cysts may make it hard to eat, especially if they are larger than normal. They may hurt or feel uncomfortable whenever your child chews on that side of their mouth.
Sometimes, eruption cysts can seem to hold back the tooth from erupting. The tooth doesn't come through as quickly as it should because the cyst is blocking its progress. Some cysts also don't go away even after the tooth erupts.
In these cases, it's best to ask your dentist for advice. If a cyst is infected, they can treat it. If the cyst causes other problems, then your dentist can lance it safely to drain out its fluid. Or, they can cut a line on the cyst to give the tooth an escape route.
Speak to a dentist, such as Carousel Dental, for more tips on dealing with an eruption cyst.
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