Common Oral Conditions

Common oral conditions seen in the pediatric patient will be our next area for discussion. These conditions are divided into three broad categories:

Common Acquired Conditions
Developmental Conditions
Congenital Conditions

Discussed in the first of three sections are:

Candidiasis
Glossitis
Primary Herpetic Gingivostomatitis
Recurrent Aphthous Ulcer
Discolored Teeth

Candidiasis

Candidiasis is characterized clinically by raised, white, curdlike plaques that leave a raw, bleeding surface when scraped. Candidiasis often occurs in children with chronic conditions who are on long-term antibiotic therapy as well as those children who are immunosuppressed.

The patient may be asymptomatic or may complain of a sore throat if the esophageal tissues are involved. In the newborn, secondary infection may occur. Lesions may be found on any mucosal surface. Topical or systemic antifungal agents are the treatment drugs of choice.

(Photo: candidiasis on buccal mucosa)