During the eruption of teeth in babies, microscopic blood vessels can sometimes rupture in the mucosal tissue surrounding the tooth, causing bleeding. This manifests as a swollen, purple, blue, or dark red formation on the gum; this is called an “eruption cyst” or “eruption hematoma.” Although the appearance can be frightening for parents, it is actually a completely benign and temporary condition. In most cases, no surgical intervention, cutting, or bursting is necessary. As the tooth continues to erupt upwards, it will burst the accumulated bloody tissue, and the mucosa will heal on its own. During this process, parents should give the baby cooled, sterile teething toys to massage the area and to naturally accelerate the eruption process.
