Mouth Lesions in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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A mouth lesion is damaged tissue that may have a change in normal color. It may look like an ulcer, a raised bump, or sore. Your child may have one or more mouth lesions that may be painful. The cause of your child's lesion may be unknown. A mouth lesion may be caused by trauma from biting the inside of the mouth or brushing teeth and gums too hard. It may also be caused by a retainer or braces that rub against parts of the mouth. A viral, bacterial, or fungal infection can also cause a mouth lesion. Mouth lesions may be a side effect of certain medicines.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Return to the emergency department if:

• Your child has severe mouth pain that is preventing him or her from eating or drinking.
• Your child has symptoms of dehydration such as the following:
  • Dark urine or urinating little or not at all
  • Dry mouth and lips
  • Crying without tears

Contact your child's healthcare provider if:

• The mouth lesion gets larger.
• Your child has a fever.
• Your child develops new symptoms, such as diarrhea, vomiting, a rash, or joint pain.
• Your child regularly has mouth lesions.
• You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Medicines:

Your child may need any of the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to give your child and how often to give it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines your child uses to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your child's doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If your child takes blood thinner medicine, always ask if NSAIDs are safe for him or her. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. Do not give these medicines to children younger than 6 months without direction from a healthcare provider.
• A mouth rinse, gel, or spray may be given to relieve pain. A mouth rinse may be given to help keep your child's mouth clean, or to prevent infection.
• Do not give aspirin to children younger than 18 years. Your child could develop Reye syndrome if he or she has the flu or a fever and takes aspirin. Reye syndrome can cause life-threatening brain and liver damage. Check your child's medicine labels for aspirin or salicylates.
• Give your child's medicine as directed. Contact your child's healthcare provider if you think the medicine is not working as expected. Tell the provider if your child is allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs your child takes. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why they are taken. Bring the list or the medicines in their containers to follow-up visits. Carry your child's medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Manage your child's mouth lesion:

• Encourage your child to clean his or her mouth regularly. Your child should brush his or her teeth, gums, and tongue after he or she eats and before bed. He or she should use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
• Encourage your child to drink liquids and eat regular meals. Mouth lesions can be painful and make it hard for your child to eat and drink. Your child should continue to drink liquids as directed to prevent dehydration. Ask how much liquid your child should drink each day and which liquids are best for him or her. Your child should also eat regular meals. Do not give your child food or drinks that irritate the mouth lesion. These include drinks or foods that are spicy, salty, or acidic. Examples include orange juice, lemonade, potato chips, or oranges.

Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your child's visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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