Watching your child grow and reach their developmental milestones is an incredible experience. One of these milestones is teething, which can be an exciting yet challenging time for both parent and child.

During the teething process, babies’ first set of teeth, also known as milk teeth or primary teeth, begin to emerge through the gums. This can cause discomfort and sometimes pain for your little one. Understanding the signs and symptoms of teething can help you provide comfort and support during this stage of their development.

What age do babies start teething?

Teething typically begins when a baby is around 6 months old, although it can vary. Some babies may start teething as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months.

The exact timing of teething can be influenced by various factors, such as genetics, overall health, and individual differences. It is important to remember that every baby is unique, and their teething journey may differ from others.

Signs and symptoms of teething

While the emergence of teeth is a natural process, it can cause discomfort for your child. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:.

1. Irritability and fussiness

As your baby’s teeth push through their gums, they may experience discomfort, leading to irritability and fussiness. They may become more difficult to soothe and may cry more frequently without an apparent reason.

2. Excessive drooling

Teething often triggers excessive drooling in babies. You may notice your child’s clothes becoming wet around the mouth, and they may develop a rash or chafing on their chin, cheeks, or neck due to the constant moisture.

3. Gnawing and chewing

Babies instinctively seek relief by gnawing and chewing on objects. You may observe them biting down on their fingers, toys, or even your fingers. This behavior helps alleviate the pressure on their gums caused by the emerging teeth.

4. Swollen or tender gums

Before a tooth erupts, the gum tissue around the area may appear swollen and feel tender to the touch. You might notice redness or a bluish hue on the gums corresponding to the incoming tooth.

5. Changes in sleeping patterns

Teething can disrupt your child’s normal sleeping patterns. They may find it challenging to fall asleep or wake up more frequently during the night due to the discomfort they experience.

Some babies may also experience mild fever during teething, although it is generally not a cause for concern unless it exceeds 100.4°F (38°C).

6. Changes in appetite

Teething can affect your baby’s appetite. They may show less interest in their usual intake of milk or solid foods due to the discomfort they are experiencing.

However, it’s important to monitor their hydration and ensure they are still getting enough nutrition. If you have concerns about their reduced appetite, consult with your pediatrician.

7. Pulling on ears or cheeks

Some babies may pull on their ears or rub their cheeks while teething. This behavior is their way of trying to relieve the discomfort in their gums.

It is important to rule out other potential causes, such as ear infections, if your baby consistently pulls on their ears.

8. Change in bowel movements

Teething can sometimes affect a baby’s bowel movements. While not all babies experience this, an increase in saliva production from teething can lead to looser stools.

These changes should be temporary and return to normal once the tooth has fully emerged.

9. Bumps under the gums

If you gently run a clean finger along your baby’s gums, you may feel small bumps beneath the surface. These bumps are a sign that the teeth are beginning to break through the gumline.

Be gentle while examining your baby’s gums to avoid causing further discomfort.

10. Unusual biting

Teething babies may exhibit a tendency to bite more frequently than usual. This can occur during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, causing discomfort for the mother or caregiver.

Related Article When do babies get their first tooth?

Encouraging the baby to chew on a teething toy before feeding can help alleviate their need to bite while eating.

What can you do to alleviate teething discomfort?

As a parent, there are several ways you can provide relief to your teething child:.

1. Give them something to chew on

Providing your baby with safe objects to chew on can help alleviate their discomfort. Look for teething toys made of non-toxic materials that are specially designed to soothe sore gums.

2. Use a clean, chilled cloth

Moisten a clean washcloth, place it in the refrigerator for a short while, and then give it to your baby to chew on. The coolness can soothe their gums and offer temporary relief.

Avoid freezing the cloth as it can become too hard and may cause more harm than comfort.

3. Offer chilled foods

If your baby has started consuming solid foods, you can offer cold and soothing options. Chilled purees or popsicles made from natural ingredients can offer a soothing effect on their gums.

Always closely supervise your baby during feeding to prevent choking hazards.

4. Gently massage their gums

Wash your hands thoroughly and gently press your clean finger against your baby’s gums. The pressure can help alleviate some of the discomfort by counteracting the pressure from the emerging teeth.

Ensure your nails are trimmed to avoid accidentally scratching their delicate gum tissue.

5. Try pain relief options

For severe teething discomfort, you may consider over-the-counter pain relief options such as teething gels or infant acetaminophen.

However, it is important to consult with your pediatrician before using any medication and strictly follow the recommended dosage and guidelines.

6. Provide extra comfort and attention

During teething, your baby may benefit from extra snuggles and attention. Offering comfort through cuddles, gentle rocking, or soothing lullabies can provide them with a sense of security and help distract them from the discomfort.

When to consult a pediatrician

While teething is a normal part of a child’s development, there are instances where it may be necessary to consult a pediatrician:.

1. High fever

If your baby’s fever exceeds 100.4°F (38°C), it is important to seek medical attention.

Although slight elevations in temperature can occur during teething, a fever above the normal range might indicate an underlying illness that requires investigation.

2. Severe and persistent symptoms

If your baby’s teething symptoms are severe, persistent, or unusual, it is advisable to consult their pediatrician. They can help rule out any other potential causes and provide guidance on managing your child’s discomfort.

3. Concerns about growth and development

If you have concerns about your baby’s overall growth and development, including their teething progress, consulting a pediatrician can offer reassurance and expert guidance.

Conclusion

Teething is a natural phase in a child’s development, but it can present challenges for both the baby and their parents.

By understanding the signs and symptoms of teething, you can provide comfort and support to your little one during this pivotal time. Remember to keep calm, be patient, and consult with a healthcare professional whenever necessary. Your child’s smile will soon be adorned with their first set of precious teeth, marking yet another milestone in their journey towards adulthood.