My 16 month old DS has suspected Gingivostomatitis which started as a fever and developed into extremely sore and swollen mouth and gums and ulcers around his lips. We took him to the GP yesterday who initially thought it might be HF&M or Scarlett Fever but his symptoms are definitely more in keeping with Gingivostomatitis (it runs in the family too). I’m trying to get another appointment for a second opinion today but it’s not proving easy.
My main concern is that I’m struggling to brush his teeth which I’ve read is important if children have Gingivostomatitis as symptoms can worsen if oral hygiene isn’t kept up…
'Continue to brush your teeth and gums, even if it hurts. If you don't continue to practice good oral care, your symptoms could worsen. You'll also be more likely to develop gingivostomatitis again. Gently brushing with a soft toothbrush will make brushing less painful.'
However every time I try and brush his teeth, no matter how softly I do it, he cries in pain and his gums bleed a lot! I’ve not dared to brush them for 48 hours now.
I’m writing this in the hope that a dentist or medical professional might be reading as I’m at a loss as to what to do. I wanted to get him an urgent dentist appointment but this probably isn’t possible whilst he’s still contagious and I don't know who to ask.
Do I perservere and continue trying to brush his teeth even though it’s causing so much pain and blood??