What type of pain relief is used for children with severe herpetic gingivostomatitis?

• A. Topical anesthetics are used as needed for pain relief.
• B. Oral antibiotics are the primary pain relief.
• C. Systemic corticosteroids are the standard treatment for pain relief.
• D. No pain relief is recommended.

Answer: (A)

Relieving pain in the mouth is the key to helping a child with severe herpetic gingivostomatitis stay hydrated and eat. The best approach is applying a topical anesthetic to the oral mucosa as needed. This locally numbs the painful ulcers, making swallowing and drinking easier and providing quick, targeted relief without systemic effects. Since the illness is viral, antibiotics aren’t used for pain relief unless there’s a secondary infection. Systemic corticosteroids aren’t standard for pain control in this condition, and choosing no pain relief would leave the child uncomfortable and at risk for dehydration. (If using topical anesthetics, follow age-appropriate guidelines and monitor for adverse effects.)