Teething 101
As a parent, seeing your baby in discomfort can be tough, especially when teething begins. While this is an exciting milestone—your baby’s first teeth!—it can also come with challenges. Understanding the signs of teething and knowing how to soothe your baby’s pain can make the process smoother.
Signs That Teething Has Begun
It can start as early as 4 months but usually begins between 6-12 months of age. Some common signs include:
- Increased drooling: new teeth often stimulates saliva production.
- Chewing on objects: Babies often try to relieve gum pressure by chewing on anything they can.
- Irritability or fussiness: Sore gums can make babies cranky.
- Swollen or tender gums: You might notice the area where a tooth is breaking through looks swollen or red.
- Disrupted sleep patterns: Babies in discomfort may wake more often during the night.
- Mild fever: Slight temperature increases can occur, though high fevers are not typical signs of teething.
How to Help Your Baby Through Teething Pain
- Teething Toys: Soft, chewable teething rings or toys can offer relief when your baby bites down on them. Opt for ones you can chill in the refrigerator for added comfort.
- Cold Compresses: A chilled, damp washcloth or a cool spoon can help numb sore gums. Avoid freezing them, as this can be too harsh for tender mouths.
- Gentle Gum Massage: Using a clean finger, gently rub your baby’s gums. This can provide instant relief.
- Pain Relievers: If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable, over-the-counter infant pain relievers, like acetaminophen, can be used. Always consult your pediatrician before administering any medication.
- Teething Biscuits: These can help, but make sure to supervise your baby while eating to avoid choking hazards.
What to Watch Out For
While teething is a natural process, there are a few things to be cautious of:
- Choking Hazards: As babies explore with their mouths, be sure any teething toys or objects they chew on are safe and large enough not to pose a choking risk.
- Avoid Frozen Rings: While cold helps, anything frozen can be too hard and may damage your baby’s gums.
- Teething Gels with Benzocaine: The FDA advises against using teething gels containing benzocaine in children under 2, as it can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia, which reduces oxygen levels in the blood.
- Excessive Fever or Diarrhea: Although mild fever is common, a high fever or diarrhea is not typical of new teeth and may indicate another issue. In this case, it’s best to consult your doctor.
Teething and Dental Health
Once your baby’s first tooth arrives, it’s time to start thinking about dental care. Clean their teeth gently with a soft, damp cloth, and later introduce an infant toothbrush. When your baby reaches their first birthday, it’s a great time to bring them to Erbsville Dental for their first dental check-up! With a little care and preparation, you can help your baby through this developmental phase with minimal discomfort.
