A whitish-yellow accumulation of keratin containing epithelial cells on the gums and hard palate of a newborn baby.

Alternative Names

Gingival cysts of the newborn

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Epstein pearls occur only in the newborn and are very common, seen in approximately 80% of newborns. On the gums, they sometimes resemble emerging teeth. The condition is harmless although it sometimes worries new mothers.

Signs and tests

Examination of the infant confirms that these are Epstein pearls and not teeth present at birth ( natal teeth ).

Treatment

No treatment is necessary.

Expectations (prognosis)

Epstein pearls disappear within 1 to 2 weeks of birth.

Complications

There are often no complications.

Calling your health care provider

(If you are concerned about Epstein pearls in your infant, discuss it with your health care provider during a routine well-baby examination .)