Bacterial stomatitis in adults. Bacterial stomatitis: what is it and how to treat it

Bacterial stomatitis is an inflammatory process in the oral mucosa, which is caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as staphylococcus or streptococcus.

When microflora penetrates the wound, they actively multiply and form an ulcer. Patients are susceptible to this disease regardless of age.

What is

Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral mucosa that lines the tongue, palate, gums, cheeks and lips.

In the bacterial form of the disease in question, these structures will be affected by harmful microorganisms.

These bacteria are opportunistic. This means that in normal conditions flora is present on the mucous membrane of healthy people.

Streptococci and staphylococci are extremely common in the environment. This may determine the frequency of pathologies that are caused by them, including the bacterial form of stomatitis.

Bacteria are found in water, on almost everyone’s skin, in the air, in affected tonsils and teeth that are damaged by caries, and on household objects.

Under certain unfavorable circumstances, the proliferation of pathogenic microflora inside the body will increase.

But this will not be enough to form a bacterial form of stomatitis. At the initial stage of pathology, bacteria penetrate into the wound on the mucosa.

Without lesions, it will become an insurmountable obstacle to these microbes.

Types of pathology

The bacterial form of stomatitis is divided into the following types:

Impetiginous. This pathology is caused by streptococci, but then staphylococcus is added. Mainly the gums are damaged. Often, children under 3 years of age suffer from this type of disease. Ulcers form on the mucous membrane, covered with a white or gray coating. When it is removed, bleeding occurs in the gums.
Erysipelas. As with the impetiginous form of the disease, the causative agent of erysipelas will be streptococci. These bacteria damage the mucous membranes in the oral cavity - tongue, cheeks, palate, gums. The pathological process proceeds as follows: swelling initially forms in the affected area, and over time, ulcers and blisters with a gray coating form. Temperatures increase and general condition worsens. The disease requires urgent medical intervention, since sepsis will develop in the near future. In particular, when the erysipelas form of stomatitis has a purulent course.
Seizures in the corners of the mouth. The pathology is provoked by staphylococcal and streptococcal infections. The corners of the lips are damaged. Initially, itchy ulcers form in this area. Over time they bleed if they are damaged.

Causes

The human skin and mucous membranes contain a large number of different microflora: bacteria, fungi, protozoa.

The body controls their total number and pathogenicity by using:

antagonism of various species with each other;
humoral types of defense (in the oral cavity - bactericidal characteristics of saliva);
general immunity.

The mucous membrane in its normal state is protected by a dense layer of epithelium and is inaccessible to pathogenic microorganisms.

However, such protection under certain factors will not be enough. This will happen during:

Deterioration of the immune system, provoked by a general pathological process, hypothermia, intoxication, smoking, alcoholism.
The presence of damage to the mucous membrane - thermal and chemical burns, mechanical trauma, for example, biting, injury from a prosthesis, filling or the sharp edge of a deformed tooth.
The presence in the mouth or nasopharynx of chronic inflammatory foci such as teeth with caries, destroyed roots, pathological gum pockets near the teeth, enlarged tonsils.
Contact with a patient with acute bacterial infection (for example, tonsillitis).
Sharing utensils and hygiene products with the patient.
The presence of ulcers on the skin of the face.

Bacterial stomatitis in children and adults can be the result of self-treatment for fungus: the patient uses antifungal agents to counteract fungal infection on the fingers of the lower extremities or in the groin.

At the same time, the fungal microflora in the oral cavity is weakened. In such a situation, the biocenosis (the balance of microflora in a confined space) will be disrupted, and pathogenic microorganisms will be activated.

Symptoms

If stomatitis has just begun to form, the patient feels discomfort when eating, in particular this is noticeable when taking acidic foods or drinks.

At the next stage, the mucous membrane will turn red, swelling will form, and the patient will feel a burning sensation, itching, and pain.

The inflammatory focus will become covered with cracks and turn into an ulcer. Salivation will increase, and a pronounced foul odor will appear from the oral cavity.

The condition of adjacent tissues will worsen, and changes will occur inside the gums. They will swell, the tissues will become loose, and will bleed with the slightest touch.

Eating food products will become difficult and painful. Implementing simple hygiene rules will become difficult. Then the process will turn into necrosis, and irreversible tissue destruction will occur.

Already 3-5 days after the onset of inflammation, the body will give a general response. You will feel unwell, have pain in your head and joints, and your temperature will increase. When pathogenic microflora descends on the tonsils, tonsillitis occurs.

The dentist is able to distinguish the disease in question by its external manifestations. The lesions will have an oval shape, outlined contours, and the mucous membrane will be covered with a gray-yellow coating on top.

The gums lose their elasticity, bleeding occurs when exposed to them, and a putrid aroma comes from the oral cavity.

Weakness is often noted in childhood, and not in adulthood, and appetite is lost.

At rest, the ulcers are not felt; acute pain occurs during the movement of the mucous membranes, even during a conversation. Characteristic features of the superficial bacterial form of stomatitis:

general malaise;
pain when eating;
increased salivation;
white coating on the surface of the tongue;
looseness and bleeding in the gums;
increased blood flow to the mucous membranes.

The subsequent stage of deep or ulcerative-necrotic stomatitis is characterized by the following symptoms:

disturbed sleep, pain in the head;
unpleasant odor from the mouth;
bleeding in the gums;
the presence of ulcers that are covered with a grayish coating;
deep ulcers with symptoms of tissue decay.

Diagnostics

Experts have not yet created special diagnostic measures for detecting stomatitis.

However, on the other hand, it will be sufficient for the doctor to conduct an external examination of the patient and listen to his complaints.

After this, it is possible to draw an initial conclusion. The type of pathology is also determined by ulcers and plaque.

In some cases, stomatitis occurs without visible symptoms. In this regard, diagnosis of the disease will be complicated.

When the disease is characterized by a chronic course, the specialist asks the patient to take a blood test, which determines the glucose level.

In addition, it is necessary to differentiate the form of stomatitis, since the therapeutic regimen may differ.

Treatment

Therapy for the bacterial form of the disease is aimed at eliminating the painful discomfort that ulcers cause, preventing an increase in their total number and the transition of the pathological process to a chronic form.

Drug therapy in childhood and adulthood will differ. It is possible to use all kinds of medications and give them to children only after agreement with a specialist and after a comprehensive diagnosis.

Self-treatment is prohibited as it may cause adverse effects.

Features of treatment for children

When a bacterial form of stomatitis develops in a child, it is necessary to treat the oral mucosa with a soda solution.

When the baby is already able to rinse his mouth, the manipulation is carried out every 2 hours and after each meal, in order to eliminate food residues. To prepare the solution, dissolve 1 tsp in a glass of water. baking soda.

In infants who cannot rinse the mouth themselves, the mucous membrane is treated using this method: the child is laid on his side, and a soda solution is sprayed using a spray can.

To relieve the painful sensations of the ulcer, it is possible to treat it with Solcoseryl paste (regardless of the baby’s age), Cholisal gel (from 12 months) or Metrogyl Denta (from 6 years).

If the baby develops an elevated temperature, he uses antipyretic drugs, for example, Nurofen or Panadol. Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended to prevent dehydration.

The baby’s diet with bacterial stomatitis is of key importance in recovery. All food products should be at room temperature.

In addition, it is served as a puree so that pieces of food do not cause injury to the mucous membrane and worsen the general condition.

It is necessary to exclude sweet, sour, and salty products from the menu. It is best for your child to consume drinks, milk and water through a straw.

Treatment for adults

Treatment of bacterial stomatitis in adults is mainly carried out using antibacterial agents. Lincomycin, Gentamicin, Ampiox are often prescribed.

Hexoral tabs. The medicine is produced in tablet form for resorption, they contain the antiseptic Chlorhexidine and the anesthetic Benzocaine.
Lidochlor. Gel with antifungal and anesthetic effects for local use.
Metrogil Denta. A gel that includes metronidazole, which has an antimicrobial effect.
Vinylin. A solution designed to suppress the growth of pathogenic microflora, accelerate the recovery of ulcers, and reduce pain. It is used to lubricate the affected mucous membrane three times a day.

To improve the functioning of the immune system in the oral cavity, immunostimulating drugs (Imudon or IRS 19) are prescribed.

An obligatory element of treatment during the bacterial form of stomatitis is the use of medications that accelerate the recovery of lesions.

Appointed:

sprays: Hexoral, Lugol, Cameton;
lozenges: Eucalyptus M;
solutions for rinsing the mouth: Stomatofit, Rotokan;
dental gels: Cholisal, Actovegin, Solcoseryl.

Possible consequences and complications

When the pathological process in question is in an advanced form, necrosis of the affected tissue begins.

This form of the disease can be eliminated directly in a hospital setting.

Complications of bacterial stomatitis can be caused by the following concomitant diseases:

tonsillitis;
pharyngitis;
ARVI.

This is associated with a significant weakening of the body’s protective function. In the chronic course of this form of stomatitis, multiple damage to the teeth is often noted as carious lesions.

In children, the bacterial form of stomatitis leads to a decrease in body weight and retarded physical growth. Similarly, it is associated with refusal to eat due to painful sensations.

Prevention

It is a known fact that a pathological process is easier to prevent than to treat. For preventive purposes, the bacterial form of stomatitis is sufficient to follow simple instructions:

balance your diet, saturate it with healthy products that are rich in micronutrients;
maintain oral hygiene and teach children to do so;
use oral care products of appropriate quality;
avoiding contact with sick people;
wash your hands before eating;
do not rush while chewing food products, this will prevent biting your cheeks and tongue;
Constantly carry out sanitation of the oral cavity by a specialist, change old fillings and dentures on time;
To prevent stomatitis in a baby, wash his toys, teethers, and dishes properly and constantly.

Bacterial stomatitis is an unpleasant pathological process. However, his prognosis is positive.

The oral mucosa generally recovers quickly, but this requires proper prescription of medications and compliance with the regimen of their use.

Self-treatment only aggravates the situation, so it is imperative to consult a specialist.

Useful video

Stomatitis is a serious disease that every person is at risk of encountering. According to medical practice, most often parents with small children, who, due to a weak immune system, are more often exposed to the negative effects of harmful microorganisms on the body with complaints about the manifestations of this disease.

There are several types of stomatitis, but among children the bacterial form of the disease is most often diagnosed, which will be studied in more detail in this article.

Stomatitis in children

Causes of bacterial stomatitis

Bacterial stomatitis in children most often develops in the presence of certain provoking factors. Thus, the disease is often diagnosed in those children who regularly suffer from tonsillitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, gingivitis, rhinitis and carious lesions of tooth enamel.

This is explained by the constant presence in the body of staphylococci and streptococci, which act as causative agents of bacterial stomatitis. According to pediatricians, the main reasons for the development of bacterial stomatitis in children are:

improper oral care, use of hygiene products that increase dry mouth, taking certain medications and other prerequisites for the development of dysbiosis;
injury to the mucous membrane in the child’s oral cavity, which can be either mechanical, chemical or thermal in nature;
various diseases that disrupt the secretion of saliva - a natural disinfectant that helps maintain normal microflora in the oral cavity.

Special attention should be paid to injury to the mucous membrane, because pathogens of bacterial stomatitis are able to colonize soft tissues only in the presence of damage and microtrauma.

Important! In the child’s oral cavity, such violations of the integrity of the mucous membrane occur due to biting the cheek, for example, while chewing food, damage from tooth fragments, hot food, or when eating solid foods. We are talking about caramels, crackers, apples, nuts.

Children aged 2 to 6 years are more susceptible to the development of bacterial stomatitis, which is explained by the regular appearance of open wounds on the gums as a result of the eruption of baby teeth.

But even if the child does not often suffer from ARVI and similar ailments, it is still there is a high risk of encountering staphylococci and streptococci, which enter the oral cavity when eating unwashed fruits and vegetables, as well as as a result of the constant desire of children to taste all available toys.

Every child can encounter bacteria

Bacterial stomatitis in children: pathogenesis

Bacterial stomatitis manifests itself with characteristic symptoms, the analysis of which by a qualified specialist will make it easy to establish the correct diagnosis. Common symptoms of bacterial stomatitis in children are associated with:

Pain when eating. Most often, children complain of unpleasant symptoms when consuming hot sauces, marinades, drinks, citrus fruits and other sour foods.
The appearance of pronounced dark swelling on the oral mucosa.
Feelings of itching and burning.
Subsequently covering the mucous membrane with bubbles, ulcers and cracks.
Increased salivation.
A sharp specific odor from the child’s mouth.
Changes in the appearance of the gums, which become loose, swollen and begin to bleed. When palpating the gums, the baby may also complain of soreness.

The course of bacterial stomatitis largely depends on the state of the child’s immune system. In conditions of weakened defenses, additional symptoms may be observed, most often represented by fever, headaches and joint pains, signs of poisoning of the body, weakness and lethargy.

Bacterial stomatitis with advanced forms has more serious complications. Thus, in the absence of proper and timely therapy, as well as with a general deterioration in the child’s defenses, a severe (necrotic) stage of the pathology may develop, accompanied by the appearance of erosive formations with purulent contents on the mucous membrane. It is also possible that inflammation may spread to the tonsils and nasopharynx, which can cause a sore throat.

Bacterial stomatitis in children - treatment

Treatment of bacterial stomatitis in children should be aimed at simultaneously solving several problems, presented:

relieving pain caused by ulcers in the oral cavity;
preventing the emergence of new inflammatory foci;
preventing the further development and spread of pathology, which, in the absence of timely and effective therapy, can acquire a chronic form.

Bacterial stomatitis in children is very easy to diagnose. A photo of pathology allows you to get the best idea of its manifestations, so even parents who closely monitor the condition of their child can suspect the disease.

Bacterial stomatitis. Photo

Attention! However, self-medication is not recommended, because only a qualified specialist will be able to determine the state of the baby’s immune system and prescribe an effective treatment regimen, taking into account the individual characteristics of the young patient.

To treat bacterial stomatitis in children, regular rinsing of the mouth is recommended. For these purposes, you can use a regular soda solution, which has excellent antibacterial properties.

The procedure must be repeated every two hours and after eating for thorough disinfection of the oral cavity. The soda solution is prepared quite simply. You just need to dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of heated water.

Symptomatic therapy is based on the following:

Treatment of mucous membranes with antiseptic drugs. You can give preference to either ordinary hydrogen peroxide or potassium permanganate or Furacilin.
Taking multivitamin complexes and antiallergic drugs to strengthen the immune system. Drugs should be selected by the attending physician.
Treatment of areas with severe damage with drugs that have an analgesic effect.
The use of antipyretic drugs if the child has an increase in temperature. In this case, it is also important not to forget about drinking plenty of fluids, which helps normalize the condition and cleanse the body of accumulated bacteria and germs.

For successful treatment of bacterial stomatitis, it is important to adjust the child’s diet. Recommended grind all products thoroughly to avoid additional damage to the mucous membrane and causing pain to the child. You should temporarily avoid sweets, sour and salty foods, and only serve food at room temperature.

Drugs for the treatment of bacterial stomatitis

Treatment of bacterial stomatitis in adults and children differs in many ways, because the available drugs have age restrictions and cannot always be used in the fight against pathology in young patients.

Solcoseryl

Attention! When it comes to multivitamin complexes and antihistamines, pediatricians most often give preference to Tavegil, Zodak, Diazolin or Suprastin.

An important role in the treatment of bacterial stomatitis is played by drugs that promote rapid healing of ulcers and their pain relief. For these purposes you can use:

Solcoseryl– dental adhesive paste that has a restorative effect on soft tissues. This form of the drug is indicated directly for the treatment of damage to the oral mucosa, regardless of the nature of their occurrence. It is recommended to apply the paste in a thin layer to damaged tissues, repeating the procedure 3 to 5 times a day. The drug is suitable for treating children of any age, because it is absolutely safe.
Holisalom– dental gel that has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic effects. It is recommended to use the drug three times a day before eating. The gel can be used at almost any age, but before treating children under one year of age, you should consult a pediatrician and follow his recommendations.
Metrogilome Dent– a dental gel that has an antimicrobial effect due to the content of metronidazole and chlorhexidine. Can be used in the treatment of children over 6 years of age. The drug is applied to the affected areas in a thin layer twice a day for a treatment duration of one week to 10 days.

Stomatitis is a rather unpleasant disease that causes a lot of inconvenience to the child. To prevent recurrence of the pathology, it is important to ensure that the baby follows the rules of personal hygiene, regularly washes his hands and does not put dirty objects into his mouth. It is important to take care of strengthening the baby’s immune system, avoid stressful situations and use high-quality oral care products.

Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral mucosa. The origin of the pathology is different and there are many provoking factors. Children are most often affected, especially under the age of three. Treatment should be carried out immediately, since the disease affects the entire body as a whole.

Causes of the disease and methods of infection

The disease can appear against the background of other pathologies, or be primary. In this case, it develops independently and is caused by a number of reasons:

There are three modes of transmission of the disease. Rapid infection occurs through kissing, touching injured areas, or sharing towels, cutlery, and cups.

Types of bacterial stomatitis with photos

Bacterial stomatitis is a lesion of the oral mucosa, which is caused by bacterial pathogens: streptococci and staphylococci. These microorganisms are found almost everywhere (in the air, on household items, etc.), and are contained in the human body within normal limits.

Type of stomatitis	Pathogen	Location of the lesion	general characteristics
Impetiginous	Streptococcus, but later staphylococci also appear	Gum	Mostly, children under 3 years of age suffer from bacterial stomatitis. Ulcers covered with a grayish coating form on the mucous membrane. Its removal is accompanied by bleeding
Erysipelas	Stomatitis is caused by streptococcal microorganisms	Mucous membranes (cheeks, gums, tongue)	Initially, swelling appears, after which reddish spots form, which are soon replaced by ulcers and blisters. The patient suffers from high fever, and overall health deteriorates greatly. Therapy must be started immediately, as sepsis may develop (mainly with a purulent course)
Sticking on the lips (we recommend reading: sticking in the corners of the lips in children: causes and treatment)	Streptococci and staphylococci	Corners of the lips (we recommend reading: why do cracks appear in the corners of the lips and how to deal with them?)	An ulcer appears on the affected area, which itches and bleeds with sudden movements (damage)

Symptoms

Symptoms of bacterial development of stomatitis depend on the form and course of the disease. Depending on the severity, the patient's condition will vary. Based on these criteria, two types can be distinguished:

Treatment of purulent stomatitis in adults

Treatment of stomatitis in adults and children should begin immediately after identifying the pathology. Minor manifestations can be eliminated on your own; to achieve quick results, you need to follow a diet and rinse.

Local phenomena should be dealt with comprehensively, after consulting with a specialist.

Drug therapy

After the examination, the doctor will prescribe treatment for purulent stomatitis, which includes several types of medications. Before using them, be sure to read the instructions and exclude all contraindications, as well as allergic reactions in adults. You need to understand that the treatment of staphylococcal pathology differs in many respects.

Group of drugs	Name of drugs	Action
Painkillers	Lidochlor, Lidocaine Asept, Anestezin, Hexoral Tabs, etc.	They have not only an antispasmodic effect, but also an antimicrobial and healing effect.
Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic	Actovegin-gel, Cholisal, Kamistad, Kameton, Hexetidine, Ingafitol, Stomatidin, etc. (we recommend reading: instructions for using Stomatidin for stomatitis).	Relieves swelling and inflammation, promotes rapid healing of ulcers
Antifungal, antiviral	Fenistil, Claritin, Loratodin, Mikozym, Daktarin, Acyclovir, Cetrin, ointments – oxolinic, bonafton	Eliminate itching, swelling, irritation
Preparations for restoration of the epithelial layer	Propolis spray, Shostakovsky balm, Karotolin, Salkoseoril	Promotes renewal and healing of the mucous membrane during purulent stomatitis

Folk remedies

Treatment of bacterial stomatitis with folk remedies is no less effective. The best of them:

Preventive measures

To protect yourself and your loved ones from bacterial stomatitis, it is enough to follow simple rules. Preventive measures should be performed daily:

Perform oral hygiene.
Treat teeth and other pathologies in this area in a timely manner.
Eat a balanced diet.
Take courses of vitamin complexes.
Reduce the risk of mucosal injury.
Monitor your health, treat all diseases (ENT, gastrointestinal tract, etc.) so as not to provoke stomatitis.

Table of contents of the topic "Microbes of the oral mucosa. Microflora of the mouth in diseases.":

Stomatitis. Viral stomatitis. Bacterial stomatitis.

Stomatitis[from Greek stoma, mouth, + -itis, inflammation] - inflammation of the oral mucosa. Stomatitis- the most common lesion of the oral cavity. Serous stomatitis is observed in many acute infections, especially often with measles, scarlet fever, diphtheria, dysentery, typhus, pneumonia, influenza, septic conditions, etc. The clinical picture of acute serous stomatitis is the entire mucous membrane of the oral cavity is bright red and slightly swollen; in severe cases, blisters, pustules, and erosions appear; the gums are swollen and surround the teeth in the form of a cushion, the interdental papillae of the gums are hypertrophied and bleed easily.

Viral stomatitis. The main pathogen is HSV type 1; less often - HSV type 2 and varicella-zoster. Viral stomatitis more often observed in persons with immunodeficiency conditions. Typically, rashes form in border areas where the skin meets the mucous membrane, for example on and around the red border of the lips. At the same time, rashes may appear on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity, more often on the mucous membrane of the lips and cheeks, less often on the pharynx and tonsils. Initially, limited hyperemia and swelling of the mucous membrane develop. Then several small round vesicles filled with yellowish-turbid liquid quickly appear. The appearance of blisters is preceded by a slight tingling and burning sensation in limited areas of the rash. The bubble arises inside the Malpighian layer; a polymorphonuclear infiltrate is formed in the papillary layer. Vesicles transform into pustules, forming erosions. The course of the disease can be complicated by periodontal disease, caries, and the presence of removable dentures. Herpetic lesions resemble herpangina, manifested by vesicular rashes on the posterior pharyngeal wall, dysphagia and anorexia. The causative agents are Coxsackie viruses of group A. In the dynamics of the disease, the vesicles burst with the formation of aphthae with a whitish bottom. The disease is self-limiting after 7-10 days.

Bacterial stomatitis are caused by various bacteria, in most cases - species that permanently live in the oral cavity. Exogenous introduction of pathogens is also possible; The oral mucosa is resistant to the action of microorganisms, and only a violation of its integrity (usually after microtrauma) predisposes to the development of an infectious process.

Stomatitis, caused by staphylococci and streptococci, constitute the main group of lesions. Stomatitis can be superficial and short-term or severe, united by the concept of “oral sepsis”. Impetiginous stomatitis is observed in childhood. The disease is characterized by the appearance of superficial erosions on the mucous membrane of the lips, cheeks, gums, hard palate and tongue, often merging together. The erosions are covered with a yellowish-gray coating; when it is scraped off, bleeding occurs. The lesions do not extend to the tonsils and pharynx. The gums, especially on the free edge, often become ulcerated. Initially, streptococci are isolated from the lesions, and at a later stage - staphylococci. Streptococcus pyogenes is also capable of causing erysipelas of the oral mucosa. Lesions can be a continuation of inflammation on the skin of the face or begin with small cracks and abrasions on the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose. Often the entrance gate can be carious teeth and purulent inflammation of the gum pockets. Sometimes erysipelas develops after surgical and orthopedic interventions in the oral cavity. Homorrhagic inflammation with severe swelling develops on the oral mucosa. Leukocyte infiltration develops in the deep layers of the mucous membrane. The mucous membrane becomes dark crimson in color. In severe cases, blisters and areas of necrosis appear on it. Local manifestations are accompanied by symptoms of general intoxication. In weakened individuals, generalization of the process with the development of sepsis is possible.

Another common disease caused by streptococci is jam. The disease begins with the appearance of a small streptococcal pustule in the corner of the mouth, which quickly transforms into erosion with fragments of the epidermis along the edges. In the absence of treatment and non-compliance with basic hygiene rules, as well as due to stretching of the skin when opening the mouth and minor injuries, a crack forms in the center of the erosion, extending to the mucous membrane of the cheek. The crack bleeds easily and becomes covered with a bloody or purulent crust. Increased salivation and untidy oral hygiene contribute to the constant irritation of streptococcal erosion, which can lead to streptococcal impetigo on the facial skin.

A child refuses to eat and is naughty - is this a familiar situation? When examining the palate and the inside of the cheeks, mothers may notice redness, white spots or blisters. Such symptoms characterize stomatitis in children, its candidal and viral forms. Inflammation of the mucous membrane is the most common disease of the oral cavity, occurs for a number of reasons and requires adequate treatment.

The inside of the mouth is lined with a mucous membrane that is sensitive to changes in pH, infection, mechanical and physical stress. If a white coating, dots, or plaques appear in a baby’s mouth, then this is thrush, caused by a microscopic fungus of the genus Candida. The infection affects the tongue, gums, and inner surface of the cheeks.

Candida infection is the cause of thrush, but inflammation of the mucous membrane or stomatitis can occur when other pathogens are activated. These are various types of bacteria and viruses. Before treating stomatitis in children at home, parents should consult a pediatrician, pediatric dentist, or ENT doctor. Consultations with specialists are necessary to clarify the nature of the infection and prescribe adequate therapy.

The inflammatory process is facilitated by hormonal disorders and concomitant diseases.

Conditions for the manifestation of thrush and other types of stomatitis in children:

increased activity of viral, fungal, bacterial microflora in the mouth;
eating contaminated vegetables or fruits;
weakening of the protective role of local immunity;
violation of oral and hand hygiene;
teething in babies;
oral injuries;
antibiotic therapy;
dry mucous membranes.

It happens that moderately severe candidal stomatitis or thrush in healthy children goes away without treatment. In a weak, sickly baby, a whitish coating spreads to the entire surface of the tongue, gums, and pharynx, making sucking and swallowing difficult. Such a child begins to refuse the breast, then loses weight. Doctors often explain the development of oral thrush in infants by the imperfection of the immune system and the weak antiseptic effect of saliva at this age.

What are the causes and symptoms of childhood stomatitis?

It should be remembered that the oral mucosa in children is thinner and more sensitive. It is easy to injure the delicate epithelium, but it is much more difficult to restore it. It is necessary to take into account the type of infection and other factors so that the treatment of stomatitis in children is effective and the child’s condition improves faster.

The main reasons for the development of stomatitis (age categories):

fungal infection (most often affects newborns and children under 3 years of age);
allergies, weak immunity (younger schoolchildren);
pathogenic bacteria (children of all age groups);
viral infection (children from 1 year to 3 years).

The development of stomatitis is characterized by such signs as burning, pain at the site of mucosal lesions. Sick children cannot eat normally and become restless and whiny. With the catarrhal nature of the disease, the mucous membrane appears reddened and swollen; erosions, blisters, and ulcers may appear on the epithelium. It is important to prevent the appearance of the aphthous form, in which small plaques appear on the tongue, gums and palate, surrounded by a white rim (aphtha). The baby cries, refuses food, his health worsens, and his temperature rises.

How to help a child with oral thrush?

Increased proliferation of fungi of the genus Candida leads to a sharp increase in temperature and enlargement of the baby's lymph nodes. Typically, candidal stomatitis or thrush is localized on the tongue, mucous surface of the cheeks and lips. The affected areas become covered with a whitish coating. At first, this cheesy substance is easily removed, and the reddened mucous membrane is visible underneath.

With a mild form of thrush, the temperature does not rise above subfebrile values. A child with candidal stomatitis does not eat well, because irritation of the inflammation with food causes him pain. Burning sensation, itching, soreness and dryness of the oral mucosa worsen the baby’s quality of life. Parents are concerned about how long this condition lasts and how long the child will be sick. If you regularly treat the oral cavity with a soda solution and use antifungal agents recommended by your doctor, the disease will go away within 3–5 days.

If you have thrush in infancy, it is necessary to treat the baby’s oral cavity with a soda solution after each feeding.

On the recommendation of the pediatrician, the baby is treated with antifungal agents based on miconazole and clotrimazole. Effective medicines for stomatitis for children - oral gel "Miconaz" and lotion "Candide" - are recommended by doctors even for newborns. Damage to the mucous membrane leads to a decrease in pH, and an acidic environment promotes further proliferation of fungi. A 2% solution of baking soda neutralizes acid and creates an alkaline environment. To prepare the liquid of the required concentration, dissolve 0.5 tsp. soda in a glass of water (5 g per 245 ml).

How to treat stomatitis in a child at home?

Therapy for inflammatory disease of the oral mucosa depends on the nature of the infection and accompanying conditions. The fight against the causative agents of childhood stomatitis - viruses, bacteria and microscopic fungi - is carried out with appropriate drugs. A laboratory determination of the causative agent of herpes, candidiasis, and bacterial culture of a smear may be required. To quickly cure stomatitis in a child, you need to undergo tests, follow doctor’s orders, maintain oral hygiene for your child, and give him drinks more often. chamomile and calendula tea.

Not knowing how to treat stomatitis in a 2-year-old child, mothers use the wrong means, perform procedures incorrectly, which harms the baby’s health. If you are not sure about the adequacy of the medications used for the type of infection, then it is better to use only painkillers and antiseptics before visiting a doctor.

The use of anesthetics and analgesics can reduce pain during stomatitis in order to speed up healing and preserve the child’s appetite.

Painkillers and antiseptic medications for stomatitis for children contain lidocaine, benzocaine, and chlorhexidine as active ingredients. If the cause of stomatitis is a virus, then the pediatrician or ENT doctor will prescribe antiviral ointments. Antifungal agents get rid of candida infection (thrush). The main symptoms and treatment of bacterial stomatitis depend on the nature of the microflora. In mild cases it is enough to use painkillers, antiseptics and antibiotics:

Asepta Baby wet wipes are intended for cleansing the oral mucosa in children from 0 to three years old and preventing inflammation.
Spray "Lidocaine Asept" when used for children under two years of age, do not spray it in the mouth, but lubricate the ulcers with this product.
Hexoral Tabs tablets are suitable for children over four years of age (for resorption).
The extract of medicinal herbs “Stomatofit” is recommended for use for children aged six years and older.

Effective antimicrobial and disinfectant folk remedies for the oral cavity - baking soda solution, herbal infusions, sea buckthorn oil.

With the catarrhal form of bacterial stomatitis, frequent rinsing of the mouth with warm boiled water with carrot, beet and cabbage juices helps. Among folk remedies for stomatitis, infusions of chamomile, calendula, sage, and solutions of aloe or kalanchoe juice are popular. Propolis tincture has a strong antimicrobial and healing effect.

How does viral stomatitis manifest and how to treat it?

The inflammatory process in the oral cavity is caused by both various microorganisms and non-infectious factors. Determining the cause of the disease allows you to more accurately determine whether stomatitis is contagious. The most contagious forms are viral, fungal and bacterial, affecting children from 0 to 2 years old. Stomatitis is caused by adeno- and enteroviruses, pathogens of herpes simplex, influenza and parainfluenza, and chickenpox. The viral infection is transmitted by coughing, sneezing, using undisinfected utensils, and through shared toys.

The child’s body reacts sharply to the virus and the temperature may rise quickly.

Almost 95% of the population is a carrier of herpes, but the development of infection does not begin in every case. The state of the immune system of a child or adult affects. One of the most common forms of stomatitis in children aged 1 to 3 years is herpetic. The fact is that the antibodies received by the baby from the mother no longer cope with the infection, and their immunity is still poorly developed in the first years of life.

Features of viral herpetic stomatitis in children:

First, areas of redness and swelling appear in the child’s mouth:
then groups of small bubbles (vesicles) appear;
the temperature may rise to 39°C;
the vesicles burst, exudate flows out;
erosions and ulcers form on the mucous membrane;
the child experiences itching, burning, pain;
The baby is crying and being capricious.

A severe form of herpetic stomatitis is often accompanied by fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Vesicles, of which there are up to 20 pieces, are located in the oral cavity, around the mouth and on the lips. The mild form is characterized by a slight increase in temperature and a small number of bubbles - up to 6 pieces.

How to treat stomatitis in children in the mouth - antiviral agents:

tablets "Acyclovir", "Imudon";
Viferon ointment or suppositories;
oxolinic ointment 0.25%;
interferon ointment;
ointment "Bonafton";
gel "Cholisal".

Temperatures above 38°C must be reduced with antipyretic drugs intended for children. The condition of children with herpetic stomatitis in a child is alleviated by antihistamine drops "Fenistil", "Zyrtek" or “Zodak”, relieving itching and burning. It is recommended to adhere to a diet, exclude sour foods, pickles, spices, citrus fruits from the menu, and you should also pay more attention to personal hygiene.

How to treat bacterial stomatitis in a child?

Bacteria, as well as microscopic fungi and viruses, cause pain and redness in individual areas or the entire oral mucosa. Ulcers and cracks appear on the hard palate, gums or under the tongue. A bacterial infection is often accompanied by bad breath, sometimes by an increase in body temperature, intoxication, which manifests itself as nausea and weakness. In severe forms of the disease, blisters with pus form in the oral cavity.

The bacterial infection is contagious for children and adults and is transmitted by airborne droplets. The use of shared utensils and household contacts contribute to the spread of the disease. Another important factor is the presence of microcracks in the oral mucosa. Children become infected with all types of stomatitis much more often due to the underdevelopment of local immunity.

If the cause of stomatitis is bacteria, then the doctor prescribes antibiotics and antiseptics for treatment.

Among drugs for the treatment of stomatitis, solutions with antibacterial and antiseptic effects are in demand. Most of the drugs produced are complex products with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It is recommended to treat spots and ulcers at least 4 times a day, covering adjacent areas of the mucosa.

Antiseptics:

“Rotokan” is a preparation based on chamomile, calendula, and yarrow for rinsing the mouth.
Methylene blue- an aqueous solution is used to treat ulcers with stomatitis in children over 1 year of age (rarely).
"Carotolin" is an oil solution of vitamin A that accelerates the regeneration of the mucous membrane.
"Solcoseryl" is a dental adhesive paste that improves healing.
Sea buckthorn oil- disinfectant and regenerating agent.

The drug "Kalgel" provides a local anesthetic and antibacterial effect. Contains the anesthetic lidocaine and the antiseptic cetylpyridinium chloride, effective against bacteria, fungi and viruses. The product can be used to treat stomatitis in children from 5 months.