When your baby starts teething
All babies go through teething, but it’s not an experience that any parent looks forward to. Your baby’s first tooth can be both exciting and frustrating, as the teething process can be difficult for both of you, especially at night when your baby is in pain or won’t sleep. Teething doesn’t have to be a nightmare; this guide will give you some of the best tips to help your baby get through his or her first teeth, so you can enjoy your little one instead of dreading this milestone in his or her life.
Signs of Teething
Teething isn’t easy on anyone. Babies can be irritable, fussy and even sick when they start to get their teeth. While there are plenty of home remedies for teething pain, it’s also important to know how to recognize if your child is getting their first tooth—so you can then look into what you can do about it. According to KidsHealth, one or two bottom teeth will typically pop through between 6 and 8 months old. The upper front teeth usually follow a few months later, around 10-12 months old.
Here are some signs that your baby might be teething – Irritability: Your baby may become cranky and difficult to console as teething begins. They may also have trouble sleeping, waking up frequently during the night and crying more than usual. Drooling:
If your baby has never been much of a drooler before, now could be a good time to invest in bibs. They may begin drooling excessively with teething, especially at night. Fever: A slight fever is normal with teething – but if your little one seems particularly uncomfortable (especially at night), you should consult your pediatrician.
Signs of Tooth Decay
Your toddler may show signs of tooth decay if her gums are inflamed or swollen and she has bad breath. If you see these symptoms, check with a dentist to find out what’s causing them. One common cause is tooth decay, so ask your child’s dentist to examine her teeth closely. The earlier decay is found and treated, the less likely it will spread into adult teeth—and more importantly, into sensitive nerve tissue inside baby’s mouth. Even after baby’s first tooth appears, you should continue cleaning her gums with a soft-bristled brush until all 20 primary teeth have come in.
Tips for Caregivers
When your little one begins to cut their first teeth, they’ll probably be cranky and upset with constant discomfort. To make things a little easier for everyone, keep these tips in mind -Create a safe place for them to chew on: Give them something soft like a washcloth or piece of clothing that they can safely gnaw on. Hard objects like toys or crib rails are off limits!
-Offer something soothing: The pain of teething is often accompanied by an increase in fussiness and crying. Try rubbing some pureed fruits or vegetables on their gums, such as banana or sweet potato. These foods are soft enough to be chewed easily but firm enough to provide relief from swelling and inflammation.
-Give them a cool bath: A warm bath can soothe sore gums, but make sure not to use any soap that could irritate their skin. If you’re looking for a more natural alternative, try adding a few drops of chamomile essential oil to your child’s bathwater for added relief from discomfort.
Tips for Parents
Teething can be a stressful time for parents and babies alike. Here are some tips to help you make it through: You should always consult with your pediatrician before administering medication, but teething tablets are generally considered safe. As always, follow dosage instructions carefully. Keep a close eye on how much medicine your child is taking, as over-medicating can be dangerous. If you’re concerned about swelling or redness in your child’s mouth, discontinue use of any medications immediately and contact your doctor. *Teething rings made of rubber or silicone are better than plastic ones; they’re more flexible and less likely to break off small pieces that could cause choking hazards.
Also read:- baby starts teething https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/when-do-babies-start-teething
