Hi..
Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC..
I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns..
As per your complain Gingivostomatitis iin infants and toddlers is commonly due to herpes virus infection leading to
Herpetic gingivostomatitis..
All the symptoms that you explained are completely pointing towards herpes virus infection..
Cottage cheese like appearrence over the tongue can be due to
fungal infection causing
oral thrush that occurs due to reduced immunity and is also common in infants..
It is a contagious infection and the child may get it from kissing , eating or coming in contact with people who have active infection..
The initial treatment is directed towards decreasing the discomfort caused due to inflammation in mouth..
You should feed your son with a soft ,cold and bland diet, a low spice vegetable soup, flavoured gelatin, bread socked in milk etc can be given..
Avoid citrus juices like orange juice and can give him fresh apple juice..
If there is fever you can give him Tylenol or
Acetaminophen ..
Application of a numbing gel like Lignocaine over the gums and other sore areas of mouth can provide relief, but care should be taken not to involve large areas of mouth as when being numb the child can accidentally bite the tongue and also damage other areas of mouth unknowingly..
Sucking ice pops or a frozen apple juice popscicle can help in reducing inflammation and discomfort...
Maintain a good
oral hygiene and use an ultra soft toothbrush for brushing can help by preventing trauma and pain to gums..
In case if there is an outbreak of sores or blisters
antiviral medicines like
Acyclovir can be advised by a Paediatrician to reduce the duration of the disease and prevent further outbreaks..
For thrush can be advised antifungal mouth drops..
Hope this information helps..
Thanks and regards..
Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora..