Infant teething can be a challenging experience for both babies and parents. The emergence of new teeth through gums can cause discomfort, leading to increased crying and irritability in babies. Recognizing the signs of teething and knowing when it typically starts can help parents effectively manage this phase. Here are some tips to help soothe a teething baby.
Using Milton’s sterilising products can also help reduce inflammation and the risk of infection during the teething process.
When Does Teething Begin?
Typically, babies begin teething between 6 and 12 months as part of their natural, healthy development. The process involves teeth breaking through the gums, with fully developed teeth usually visible around the child’s first birthday. Lower teeth tend to come in first, followed by upper teeth, and molars at the back of the mouth are the last to appear.
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, as it can cause irritability, drooling, and discomfort for the little one. To help soothe your baby during this process, you can offer them a cold teething ring or washcloth to gnaw on, gently massage their gums with a clean finger, or give them a teething toy to chew on.
It’s important to remember that every baby is different, and some may begin teething earlier or later than others. If you have concerns about your baby’s teething process or if they seem to be in a lot of pain, don’t hesitate to consult with your pediatrician for advice and guidance.
How to Soothe Teething Discomfort
While teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, there are several ways to help alleviate discomfort:
- Give your baby a cold teething ring or washcloth to chew on.
- Massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger to provide relief.
- Offer chilled fruits or vegetables for your baby to gnaw on.
- Use over-the-counter teething gels or medications as recommended by your pediatrician.
- Try distractions like singing, rocking, or playing with toys to help your baby through the discomfort.
It’s important to remember that teething is a natural process and, while it can be uncomfortable, it’s a temporary phase that will pass. If you have concerns about your baby’s teething symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult with your child’s healthcare provider for guidance and support.
Herbal Remedies
Some parents find relief for teething pain by using natural remedies such as clove oil or chamomile tea. However, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician before using any herbal remedies to ensure they are safe for your baby.
Pain Relief Medication
If your baby is experiencing severe discomfort, you may consider giving them infant pain relief medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider before giving any medication to your baby.
Consulting with a Pediatric Dentist
If your baby is experiencing persistent or severe teething pain, it may be helpful to consult with a pediatric dentist. They can provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and offer specific recommendations for managing teething discomfort.
Comfort Measures
In addition to the above methods, providing comfort measures such as cuddling, rocking, or singing to your baby can help distract them from the teething pain and offer them emotional support during this challenging time.
Milton’s Sterilisation Products
Maintaining cleanliness of objects is crucial during the teething phase to prevent infections. Milton’s sterilisation products adhere to high safety standards and have a proven track record in baby care. These products are readily available in various retail outlets for easy access.
Babies typically begin teething around 6 months of age, with teething symptoms potentially appearing as early as 13 weeks. Most children have their full set of 20 baby teeth by the age of 2 and a half years.
Additional Teething Symptoms
In addition to common teething symptoms, babies may show signs like flushed cheeks, increased drooling, excessive chewing, tender gums, and nappy rash. It’s important to note that high temperature, diarrhea, or general illness are not directly related to teething.
Some parents also report that their babies may have disrupted sleep patterns, irritability, ear pulling, and loss of appetite during teething. It’s common for babies to experience a combination of these symptoms as their teeth start to come through.
While teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents, there are ways to help alleviate discomfort. Providing a chilled teething ring or a clean, damp washcloth for your baby to chew on can help soothe their gums. Gentle rubbing of the gums with a clean finger or using a teething gel recommended by your pediatrician can also provide relief.
Comforting Your Teething Baby
Relief Options
- Offer cool teething rings or toys
- Gently massage sore gums with teething gel
- Consider using mild pain relief to alleviate discomfort
- Provide cold water for hydration and gum soothing
- Introduce healthy food options for chewing
- Supervise eating activities to prevent choking hazards
Safe Teething Practices
Ensure that teething rings are of appropriate size and are chilled, but avoid freezing them to prevent gum damage. A clean, cool wet facecloth can also serve as a soothing teething aid.
Professional Advice on Pain Relief
Consult healthcare professionals for safe usage of over-the-counter teething gels or pain relief medications. Always carefully follow dosage instructions to ensure your baby’s well-being.
Cautionary Notes
Avoid using amber teething jewelry or unapproved homeopathic products as they can pose choking hazards and have adverse effects on infants. It is essential to prioritize your baby’s safety and health during the teething process.
… (continuation of additional sections for comprehensive teething and baby care guidance)
Use water and a soft toothbrush for cleaning. Avoid using toothpaste at this early age.
Teach your baby good oral hygiene practices by incorporating teeth brushing into their daily routine and setting a positive example.
First dentist appointment
Take your baby to the dentist around 6 months of age once their first teeth start appearing. The dentist can assess teeth development, provide care instructions, and offer advice on teething-related issues.
Babies with tongue tie
Some babies may experience difficulty moving their tongues due to a condition known as ‘tongue tie’. This condition can impede food debris removal and lead to tooth decay, potentially requiring a frenectomy in certain cases.
When to get medical advice
Urgent advice: Contact your GP urgently if your baby:
- Has a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius
- Is lethargic and drowsy
These symptoms are not associated with teething and may necessitate medical attention. While teething can cause a mild rash on the chin or neck, a widespread rash is not common. Seek advice from your GP if your baby is dehydrated or experiencing feeding difficulties.
For further guidance on baby dental care, consult dentists or public health nurses.
Related topic
More in Caring for a new baby
Page last reviewed: 4 February 2022
Next review due: 4 February 2025
This project has been funded by the Government of Ireland’s Sláintecare Integration Fund 2019 under Grant Agreement Number 8.
When caring for a new baby, it’s important to create a safe and nurturing environment. Make sure to baby-proof your home by securing cabinets, covering electrical outlets, and keeping small objects out of reach. Establish a consistent routine for feeding, sleeping, and playtime to help your baby feel secure and develop healthy habits.
HSE Live – we’re here to help
Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm
Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Sunday: Closed
Bank holidays: Closed
Teething is a natural process in children but can present symptoms such as fever and reduced appetite. Understanding the physiology of teething and related factors is essential for providing timely assistance. This article offers insights into teething stages, symptoms, and ways to alleviate discomfort without medication.
Keywords
About the Author
Kazan State Medical Academy – a branch of the Russian Medical Academy of Continuing Professional Education
Russian Federation
Asiya I. Safina – Dr. Sci. (Med.), Professor, Head of Pediatrics and Neonatology Department.
36, Butlerov St., Kazan, 420012
References
1. Macknin M.L., Piedmonte M., Jacobs J., Skibinski C. Symptoms Associated With Infant Teething: A Prospective Study. Pediatrics. 2000;105(4):747-752. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.105.4.747.
2. Belousova N.A., Belousova E.G. Caring for a healthy child: development and eruption of temporary teeth. Uchastkovyy pediatr = District Pediatrician. 2009;(1):7. (In Russ.)
Teething marks a significant milestone in a baby’s life but can pose challenges. Explore teething signs, remedies, and tips to help keep your baby comfortable.
What can help alleviate teething discomfort?
There are several methods that can help relieve teething pain and discomfort in babies:
- Give your baby a cool, but not frozen, teething ring or washcloth to chew on.
- Massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a wet gauze pad.
- Offer cold foods like applesauce or yogurt to help numb the gums.
- Use over-the-counter teething gels or medications specifically designed for infants, following the recommended dosage instructions.
- Provide extra cuddles and comfort to help soothe your baby during this uncomfortable time.
When should I contact a healthcare provider?
If your baby experiences severe symptoms like high fever, diarrhea, or rash, or if you have concerns about your baby’s teething process, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for guidance and support.
Conclusion
Teething is a natural and sometimes challenging phase of a baby’s development. By understanding the stages of teething, knowing how to alleviate discomfort, and seeking help when needed, you can support your baby through this milestone with care and patience.
Signs of infant teething [1,3]
Recognizing teething symptoms is essential for providing comfort and care to your baby. Get familiar with the common signs of teething.
Acting cranky
A teething baby may become fussy or irritable due to discomfort.
Crying
Crying is a normal reaction to teething pain, leading to increased crying episodes.
Drooling
Excessive drooling is a common teething symptom as saliva helps soothe inflamed gums.
Wanting to chew on hard things
Teething babies often seek relief by putting objects in their mouths to ease gum pressure. It is crucial to ensure these objects are safe to prevent choking or infection.
Gums may be swollen and sore during teething, and it’s important to avoid harmful remedies like applying liquor to the gums.
Fever may occur during teething, but high fever or diarrhea may signal a problem. Contact a pediatrician if needed.
Teething can disrupt sleep, so establishing a bedtime routine and providing comfort with a teething ring can be beneficial.
Some babies may experience a reduced appetite during teething, so offering soft foods and ensuring proper hydration is key.
Babies might exhibit behaviors like biting, ear pulling, or cheek rubbing due to gum discomfort.
Facial rash can result from increased drooling, so maintaining a clean and dry face can prevent this.
For teething relief, consider massaging gums, using cool teething rings or pacifiers, and offering chilled foods. Consult a pediatrician before using Tylenol for pain relief.
Prevent facial rash by keeping your baby’s face clean and dry, and avoid certain teething products like gels, liquid-filled rings, and hard objects. Opt for safe teething toys and provide comfort and cuddles during this stage. Ensure hydration and gentle brushing as new teeth emerge. For severe symptoms during teething, consult a pediatrician.