Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: What Dentists Want You to Know
When you hear “Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease” (HFMD), you might picture a child with a rash on their hands or feet—but did you know this common viral illness can also show up in the mouth? As dental professionals, we’re here to shed light on how HFMD can affect oral health and what you should watch for, especially if your little ones (or even you!) come down with it.
What Is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease?
HFMD is a contagious viral infection most often caused by the Coxsackievirus. It’s typically seen in children under 5, though adults can catch it too. Spread through close contact, sneezing, coughing, or touching contaminated surfaces, it’s no surprise that daycares and schools are common hotspots. While the telltale signs include fever, rash, and sores on the hands and feet, the mouth is often where the trouble starts—and that’s where we, as dental experts, come in.
Oral Symptoms: A Dentist’s Perspective
From a dental standpoint, the mouth is a key player in HFMD. One of the earliest signs is often painful sores or blisters inside the mouth, particularly on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks. These sores can make eating, drinking, and even brushing teeth a challenge. Here’s what you might notice:
- Red Spots or Blisters: Small, red spots can appear in the mouth and quickly turn into painful ulcers.
- Sore Throat: The discomfort often extends to the throat, making swallowing tough.
- Excessive Drooling: Especially in young kids, those mouth sores can lead to more drooling than usual.
- Bad Breath: A secondary effect of the sores and reduced oral hygiene during illness.
For parents bringing their kids to the dentist, these symptoms might initially be mistaken for teething or a canker sore. But the combination of oral sores with a fever or rash elsewhere on the body is a big clue it could be HFMD.
How Does HFMD Affect Dental Care?
When HFMD strikes, maintaining good oral hygiene can feel like an uphill battle. The pain from mouth sores often discourages kids (and adults) from brushing or flossing properly. As dentists, we see this as a temporary hurdle—but one that needs attention to prevent bigger issues like cavities or gum irritation down the line.
During an active HFMD infection, we typically recommend postponing routine dental visits. Not only is the patient contagious, but those sores can make a cleaning or exam uncomfortable. If you’re unsure whether to reschedule, give us a call—we’re happy to advise!
Tips for Managing Oral Health During HFMD
Here’s how you can support your child’s (or your own) oral health while recovering from HFMD:
- Stay Hydrated: Encourage cool, non-acidic fluids like water or milk to soothe the mouth and prevent dehydration. Avoid citrus juices or spicy foods that could sting.
- Soft Foods Are Your Friend: Opt for bland, easy-to-eat options like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies to minimize discomfort.
- Gentle Oral Care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild toothpaste. If brushing is too painful, a saltwater rinse can help keep things clean.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers (as recommended by your doctor) or oral numbing gels can ease soreness and make oral hygiene less daunting.
- Watch for Complications: Rarely, sores can become infected. If you notice swelling, pus, or worsening pain, reach out to your dentist or pediatrician.
When to See a Dentist
HFMD usually resolves on its own within 7-10 days, but a dental checkup might be in order if sores linger or if you’re concerned about how the illness affected your child’s teeth and gums. We can also assess any enamel wear or hygiene setbacks that might have cropped up during recovery.
The Dental Takeaway
At Dr. W. Gregory Rose DDS PA, we’re not just about cleanings and fillings—we’re here to guide you through unexpected health hiccups like HFMD too.
Stay healthy, and keep smiling (even if it’s a little tender for now)!
