Teething is a natural process that every baby goes through. It is the development of teeth in a baby’s mouth as they grow. Teething for some babies can be a painful and irritable experience while for others, it may be a breeze.
In this article, we will discuss what to expect during the teething process and when to take action to help your little one through this tough time.
What is Teething?
Teething is the process of when a baby’s teeth begin to emerge through their gums. The primary teeth, also known as baby teeth, usually start to appear between six to eight months of age. However, this can vary from child to child.
From this point, the baby will continue to have teeth appear throughout their early childhood, until they have their full set of 20 teeth by about three years of age.
What are the Signs of Teething?
Teething can cause various symptoms that include:.
- Red, swollen gums
- Irritability or fussiness
- Drooling
- Chewing or gnawing on things
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
- Difficulty sleeping or restlessness
It is important to remember that not all babies will show all of these symptoms. Some may show little more than the appearance of a new tooth in their mouth.
When Should You Start to Take Action?
If your baby seems uncomfortable while teething, there are a few things you can do to alleviate the discomfort. These include:.
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- Giving your baby a cold, wet washcloth or teething toy to chew on to help reduce inflammation and numb sore gums
- Offering your baby healthy, soft foods such as mashed bananas or apple sauce to help soothe their gums.
- Giving your baby a gentle gum massage with your finger to help alleviate the pain,
- Using baby-safe pain relief products to help ease the pain, such as infant acetaminophen.
It is important to avoid any products containing benzocaine, which can cause a rare but dangerous reaction called methemoglobinemia in infants younger than two years old.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If your baby seems to be experiencing more sever symptoms that include:.
- Fever
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Rashes
- Coughing or sneezing
- Refusing to eat or drink
It is important to take your baby for a doctor’s visit to rule out other possible causes of these symptoms.
Additionally, if your baby’s fever is over 101 degrees Fahrenheit or if they seem to have a lot of pain and discomfort while teething, it may be time to visit a doctor.
How Can You Help Your Baby?
It is important to be patient and understanding during the teething process. While there is no way to completely remove your baby’s discomfort, you can offer comfort and support in the following ways:.
- Hold and cuddle your baby frequently to reassure them and offer comfort.
- Provide distractions during teething discomfort such as new toys and playing games with them.
- Create a calm and soothing environment with low lights and soothing sounds to help your little one rest.
- Encourage your baby to chew or gnaw on something cool or cold for some comfort.
In Conclusion
Teething can be a difficult process for both babies and parents. However, knowing what to expect and how to take action is important to make it easier.
Remember to be patient and supportive during this time, offer comfort in the form of cold or cool compresses, safe pain relief, and lots of cuddles to help your baby through the discomfort.
