Reviewed by Dr Kathryn Stanley
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Reading Time: Three Minutes
High fever and painful mouth sores in young children can be concerning. One common cause is a viral infection called primary herpetic gingivostomatitis. This condition is caused by the herpes simplex virus and most often affects toddlers and preschool-aged children.
Table of Contents
What Is Primary Herpetic Gingivostomatitis?
Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis is the first time a child’s body comes into contact with the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). It affects the gums and the lining of the mouth and can lead to a high fever, swollen gums, and painful blisters inside the mouth.
Symptoms To Watch For
Symptoms often appear quickly and can last up to two weeks.
Common signs include:
- High fever
- Painful blisters on the gums, tongue, lips, or inside the cheeks
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Refusing to eat or drink due to mouth pain
- Increased drooling
- Irritability
As the blisters break open, they can turn into shallow ulcers. These sores can make eating and drinking very uncomfortable. When mouth pain leads to reduced fluid intake, dehydration can develop, especially in younger children.
How Is Primary Herpetic Gingivostomatitis Treated?
Treatment focuses on comfort and hydration while the virus runs its course. Symptoms usually improve within 7 to 14 days.
Care at home often includes:
- Age-appropriate pain relief medication
- Encourage frequent sips of fluids throughout the day
- Offer soft, cool foods that are easier to tolerate
- Avoid acidic or spicy foods that can irritate mouth sores
In more severe cases, a physician may prescribe an antiviral medication. This can help shorten the length of the illness and reduce how intense the symptoms become.
When to See a Doctor
Most cases improve with supportive care at home, but medical evaluation is important in certain situations.
You should contact a pediatrician if:
- Signs of dehydration develop, such as dry mouth, fewer wet diapers or bathroom trips, or unusual fatigue
- The fever lasts more than a few days
- Your child refuses to drink fluids
- Mouth pain is severe or not improving
Prompt medical care helps prevent complications, especially those related to dehydration, and ensures your child receives appropriate treatment.
Oral Health Education in Early Childhood
Many common childhood illnesses can affect the gums and soft tissues of the mouth. At early dental visits, we educate parents about these conditions and how to identify and manage them. These appointments also provide an opportunity to discuss daily habits that support strong teeth and healthy gums from an early age.
Pediatric Dental Care in Overland Park, KS
Early dental visits give families the chance to ask questions, learn what is normal, and feel confident about their child’s oral health as they grow.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Overland Park, call (913) 345-0331 or visit us at 8575 W 110th St Suite 310, Overland Park, KS.
FAQs
Is primary herpetic gingivostomatitis contagious?
The virus spreads through saliva and close contact. Children are most contagious while they have active sores.
Is this virus the same as hand, foot, and mouth disease?
No. Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Hand, foot, and mouth disease is caused by different viruses, most commonly coxsackievirus. While both conditions can cause mouth sores and fever, hand, foot, and mouth disease also typically causes a rash on the hands and feet.
Can adults get this infection?
Adults can develop a primary herpes simplex infection if they have not previously been exposed. Symptoms in adults may also include mouth sores and fever.
