Epstein pearls

Epstein pearls are small, harmless cysts that form in a newborn’s mouth during the early weeks and months of development.



The bumps contain keratin, a protein that occurs naturally in human skin, hair, and nails.
Epstein pearls go away on their own within a few weeks of the baby’s birth and are not a cause for concern.
Epstein pearls are usually white or yellowish, and they tend to be smaller than 3 millimeters in diameter.
The bumps may be noticeable when a baby opens their mouth to cry or yawn. However, they do not cause any discomfort to the baby and should not interfere with feeding.
Sometimes, people may confuse Epstein pearls with a condition called milia, which also causes keratin-filled bumps. The main difference is their location. Epstein pearls only appear on the roof of the mouth and gums, while milia can occur anywhere on the skin.
Epstein pearls are very common, occurring in up to 60–85% of all newborns. Experts believe that they happen while the roof of the baby’s mouth is forming in the womb.
Epstein pearls do not occur as a result of anything that the woman did during pregnancy. They are also not a sign that anything is wrong with the baby. There is no way to prevent Epstein pearls.
Epstein pearls do not occur in older children or adults because they are a result of fetal development.
Epstein pearls do not require treatment. In most cases, they slowly dissolve on their own within a few weeks.