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Baby Teething and How to Help: 4 Tips and Tricks

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Baby Teething and How to Help: 4 Tips and Tricks

baby-teething-and-how-to-help-4-tips-and-tricks

Teething is an often overlooked baby milestone, but one that can be very trying for baby and parents alike. It may seem like your baby will never stop crying or you’ll never find relief from the constant drooling, but there are some things you can do to help the baby through teething time! Read on for our 4 tips and tricks for this stage of life.

The Teething Process

Teething occurs when the baby’s gums swell and those first teeth start to come in. This process can be very uncomfortable for some babies, causing them to teethe with drool and even pain as they fuss or cry more than normal. Teeth begin coming through the gum line anywhere from four months of age on up into toddlerhood.

The Process For Babies Under Six Months of Age

Babies under six months old usually don’t have teeth that come in and out, so teething does not apply for this age group. The only exception to this is if the baby has an extra tooth or two, which is common. If there are symptoms present in a baby this young, it’s usually due to another cause such as an ear infection or diaper rash and not teething.

Symptoms 

Every baby is different. With that being said, the average age that babies  begin teething is around 6 months old. The two bottom front teeth (lower central incisors) are usually the first to appear, followed by the two top front teeth (upper central incisors). Mayo Clinic lists the common signs of teething to be:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Chewing on objects
  • Irritability or crankiness
  • Sore or tender gums
  • Slight increase in temperature — but no fever

Many parents suspect that teething causes fever and diarrhea, but researchers say these symptoms aren’t indications of teething. If your baby has a rectal temperature of 100.4 F (38 C) or diarrhea, talk to your doctor.

4 Tips and Tricks for Soothing Teeth

If your little one is teething, check out these 4 tips and tricks that can help soothe teething pain and discomfort.

  1. Use teething rings. These rings are a great way to help a baby with teething. They can be put in the fridge, which helps soothe their gums and provide some relief from pain when teething symptoms start up.
  2. Teething biscuits and teethers are another popular teething tool. You can also put these in the fridge to help the baby with teething pain relief. 
  3. Offer cold foods. Freezing some mild foods such as bananas, applesauce, yogurt cubes and avocados makes a teething snack that a baby will enjoy and can help soothe pain.
  4. Gently massage the baby’s gums. Using a clean finger, gently massage their sore gums. The pressure can help relieve some of the discomfort.

This stage of life doesn’t have to be scary. By knowing the process, how it affects your little one, and what you can do about their uncomfortable symptoms, you’ll be ready for these times. 

Teething Treatments to Avoid

We know it can feel like desperate times call for desperate measures, however, when it comes to the safety of your child there are treatments to avoid. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia recommends avoiding these treatments:

  • The FDA has recently issued a warning against the use of homeopathic teething tablets and gels. Parents should throw away any homeopathic remedies they may have in their homes.
  • Over-the-counter gels and liquid benzocaine products, such as Anbesol® or Orajel®, can be unsafe for babies. Talk to your pediatrician or dentist before use.
  • Amber teething necklaces should also be thrown out. These are sometimes sold with claims that the amber releases a pain-relieving chemical that is absorbed through the baby’s skin. However, there is no scientific evidence that they actually soothe pain, and they pose a potential risk for both strangulation and choking. 

When to See a Doctor 

If the baby’s symptoms last for more than a couple of days, their gums are swollen and red, or they’re having difficulty swallowing (due to pain), talk with your doctor. If it also causes fever, diarrhea or other issues that don’t seem like typical symptoms, call your pediatrician right away. This milestone can be a struggle for both baby and parent, but keep in mind that this stage won’t last forever.

Call Mountain Aire Dentistry

Your baby should see the dentist by the time they get their first tooth or turn 1 year old, whichever happens first. At Mountain Aire Dentistry, we are here for your child from their first tooth, through orthodontic care, all the way into adulthood. If you’re ready to make an appointment for your child or even if you’re overdue for an appointment yourself, call us today: (303) 731-7755.

 


291 E Flatiron Crossing Dr,
Broomfield, CO 80021

(303) 731-7755

 

When you visit our Broomfield dental office, your smile is our top priority. Our Dentists invite you to experience the difference a warm and caring team can provide for you and your family. Enjoy a unique and comfortable dental experience designed to bring a healthier and happier smile back into your life. We invite you to call or visit our Broomfield dental office and discover the exceptional difference we offer to those we serve.