Teething, the process of a baby’s primary teeth erupting through the gums, is a natural developmental milestone. However, for both babies and parents, it can be a time of discomfort, fussiness, and sleepless nights. Knoxfield dentists will help you to understand the teething process, recognising symptoms, and employing effective relief strategies can make this phase smoother for everyone.
The Teething Timeline
The typical teething timeline varies from baby to baby, but it usually begins around 6 months of age and continues until around 3 years old. The order of eruption can also differ, although the lower central incisors often appear first, followed by the upper central incisors. The lateral incisors, canines, and molars will erupt over the following months.
Teething Symptoms
While not every baby experiences all symptoms, some common signs of teething include:
- Increased Drooling: Drooling is a natural response to the discomfort and irritation caused by the teeth pushing through the gums.
- Gummy Chewing: Babies will instinctively gnaw on anything they can get their hands on to soothe the pressure and discomfort in their gums.
- Irritability and Fussiness: The pain and discomfort associated with teething can make babies cranky and fussy.
- Changes in Sleep Patterns: Discomfort from teething can disrupt a baby’s sleep, leading to frequent waking and difficulty settling.
- Mild Fever: A low-grade fever (around 100°F or 37.8°C) can sometimes accompany teething. However, a higher fever might indicate an underlying illness, so consult our dentist if your baby has a fever exceeding 100.4°F (38°C).
- Red and Swollen Gums: The gums around the erupting teeth might appear red and swollen, causing discomfort for your baby.
Soothing Teething Discomfort
Several strategies can help alleviate your baby’s teething woes:
- Teething Toys: Provide your baby with safe, age-appropriate teething toys made of solid rubber or silicone. These provide a safe surface for them to chew on and soothe their gums. Chill the teething toys in the refrigerator for an extra numbing effect.
- Gum Massage: Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean fingertip. The pressure can provide relief and help break through the emerging tooth.
- Cool Washcloth: A cool, damp washcloth can be soothing when chewed on.
- Chilled Mesh Feeder: Fill a mesh feeder with fresh fruits or vegetables (peeled and cut into small pieces) and refrigerate it. The chilled mesh provides a safe and cool surface for your baby to gnaw on.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If your baby is in significant discomfort, consult our dentist about using age-appropriate pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Always follow dosage instructions carefully.
When to Worry
While teething is a natural process, there are some situations that might warrant a call to our dentist:
- High Fever: A fever exceeding 100.4°F (38°C) could indicate an ear infection or another illness unrelated to teething.
- Diarrhoea or Vomiting: Teething itself does not cause diarrhoea or vomiting. If your baby experiences these symptoms, consult our dentist to rule out other causes.
- Severe Fussiness: If your baby’s fussiness is persistent and inconsolable, it’s best to seek professional advice.
- Difficulty Sleeping: While occasional sleep disruptions are common during teething, consult our dentist if your baby has significant trouble sleeping for several nights in a row.
- Bleeding Gums: Slight bleeding might occur during teething, but excessive bleeding warrants a visit to your paediatrician.
- Delayed Teething: If your baby shows no signs of teething by 18 months, consult our dentist to rule out any underlying issues.
Teething is a natural but often uncomfortable phase for babies. By understanding the symptoms, employing soothing strategies, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can navigate this time with confidence and provide comfort for your little one. Remember, a healthy dose of patience and these helpful tips can make teething troubles a little less troublesome for everyone involved.
