Embarking on the teething journey brings excitement, but it can also transform calm babies into tearful bundles. Thankfully, there exist reliable solutions such as teething gels and rings to alleviate discomfort.
Teething typically begins around 6 months of age, although it can vary from baby to baby. Common symptoms of teething include excessive drooling, irritability, and swollen gums. Some babies may also experience a low-grade fever or loss of appetite during this time.
In addition to teething gels and rings, parents can also offer chilled teething toys or a clean, damp washcloth for babies to gnaw on. Gentle massage of the gums with a clean finger can also help provide relief.
It’s important to remember that teething is a natural process and, while it can be uncomfortable for babies, it is temporary. With the right remedies and care, parents can help their little ones through this milestone with minimal fuss.
Understand warning signs
When teething, your little one might display symptoms like red cheeks, excessive drooling, feeding and sleeping challenges. They might exhibit irritability and seek closeness more than usual.
Relief Solutions
Chill Their Teether
To soothe sore gums, provide chilled teethers or cold water. Trying frozen fruits or using baby feeder mesh bags can also help numb the discomfort.
Select the Ideal Teether
Experiment with different teething options to find what brings the most relief. Circular teethers are great for front teeth, while longer designs cater to molars.
Utilize your finger or teething toys to calm your baby, ensuring that they are clean and offer varied textures.
Medicinal Solutions
Consider using pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, following appropriate dosage guidelines. Teething granules and gels offer additional avenues for easing the ache.
Home Remedies
Provide a warm, tidy flannel for your baby to suck on, or extend extra cuddles and affection during this turbulent period.
Teething Progress
The teething process commences around six weeks post-conception, leading to discomfort prior to the teeth emerging. Signs of teething include tugging at ears and rubbing of cheeks.
Teeth emerge gradually, starting with the bottom front ones, progressing to molars and canines. By approximately two and a half years, most infants have a full set of twenty teeth.
Teething signifies a pivotal moment in your baby’s development but can pose challenges. Familiarize yourself with teething signs and effective remedies to ensure your baby’s well-being.
During the teething process, your baby may experience symptoms such as irritability, drooling, and sore gums. Providing a teething ring or chilled washcloth for your baby to chew on can help alleviate discomfort.
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene for your baby even before their first tooth emerges. Gently wipe their gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings to remove bacteria and prevent future dental issues.
Stage 3: (8-10 months)
Next to appear are the upper central incisors, followed by the lateral incisors.
Stage 4: (10-14 months)
During this stage, first molars begin to emerge, providing more chewing surface for the baby.
Stage 5: (14-18 months)
The canine teeth typically make their entrance at this point.
Stage 6: (18-24 months)
Finally, the second molars come in, completing the set of primary teeth.
It’s important to note that while teething can cause discomfort for babies, it is a natural process that can vary from child to child. Providing teething toys or gently massaging the gums can help alleviate some of the discomfort. If your child is having extreme difficulty or if you have concerns about their teething process, consult with their pediatrician for guidance.
Teething Stages
Description: Initial teeth to appear, either singularly or in pairs.
Symptoms: Excessive drooling, fussiness, desire to gnaw on objects, inflamed, swollen gums.
Stage 3: (8-12 months)
Teeth: Upper central incisors.
Description: Often follow lower central incisors, can be individual or in pairs.
Symptoms: Discomfort becomes more pronounced, increased fussiness, sleep disturbances.
Stage 4: (9-16 months)
Teeth: Lower and upper lateral incisors.
Description: Typically in pairs, situated adjacent to central incisors.
Symptoms: Ongoing drooling, chewing tendencies, heightened gum inflammation, irritability, slight elevation in body temperature.
Stage 5: (12-18 months)
Teeth: First molars.
Description: Larger teeth leading to significant discomfort due to size and pressure on gums.
Symptoms: Irritability, feeding troubles, drooling, gum swelling.
Stage 6: (16-22 months)
Teeth: Canines.
Description: Typically the next to emerge, either individually or in pairs.
Symptoms: Discomfort less than molars, increased fussiness, swollen gums.
Stage 7: (22-33 months)
Teeth: Second molars.
Description: Final primary teeth, leading to significant discomfort due to size.
Symptoms: Irritability, disrupted sleep, heightened drooling, gum swelling, mild temperature elevation.
Teething Process
Symptoms usually commence 3-5 days before the tooth emerges and may persist a few days after. The teething process can span up to three years, characterized by alternating periods of unease and tranquility.
Recognizing Teething
Indications of teething include fussiness, irritability, tearfulness, heightened drooling, and a penchant for chewing on objects.
Fussiness and Crying
Babies may cry more as a result of teething discomfort.
Drooling
Increased saliva production aids in soothing inflamed gums.
Chewing
Babies chew on objects to alleviate gum pressure.
Gum Swelling
Gums may become swollen and tender, with hard lumps where teeth are emerging.
Fever
Mild fever is common, while high fever or diarrhea necessitate consultation with a pediatrician.
Sleep Disruption
Discomfort can impact sleep patterns.
Appetite Changes
Appetite may diminish, or there may be a desire to chew on solid foods.
Teething Relief
Rubbing Gums
Massage gums gently with a clean finger or provide a teething ring for comfort.
Cool Relief
Chill teething items for a numbing effect on the gums.
Chilled Foods
Offer chilled pureed fruits or vegetables for relief.
Cold Spoon
Place a cool, clean spoon on gums for a soothing sensation.
Pain Relief
Use pain relief medication containing acetaminophen to alleviate discomfort.
Skin Care
Prevent facial rashes from drooling by maintaining facial cleanliness and using moisturizer.
Avoid Harmful Practices
Avoid unsafe teething products and practices.
Safe Teething Solutions
Invest in safe teething toys, offer gentle baths, provide comfort and cuddles, and ensure proper hydration.
Gentle brushing: To maintain emerging teeth clean and reduce irritation, softly brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water.
If you have any questions, talk to your pediatrician
If your baby’s symptoms appear severe or if you have concerns, seek advice from your pediatrician for personalized guidance to enhance your baby’s comfort.
Teething signifies a notable milestone, but it can bring discomfort for babies and stress for parents. Symptoms can include:
- Irritability and fussiness
- Drooling
- Chewing and biting
- Swollen or tender gums
- Changes in appetite
- Ear rubbing
- Mild fever
While not all infants will encounter all symptoms, several natural remedies can mitigate teething pain and unease.
Cold Compresses
Using cold compresses can aid in numbing gums and reducing swelling. Options include a chilled washcloth, cold spoon, teething ring, or frozen fruits and vegetables.
Massaging Gums
Mildly massage the gums with a clean finger or silicone gum massager to stimulate blood flow and release natural pain-relieving agents.
Chamomile Tea
The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile tea can help alleviate teething discomfort. Use a diluted chamomile tea-soaked cloth or offer chamomile tea to drink.
Clove Oil
Diluted clove oil can reduce pain and inflammation when applied to your baby’s gums. Exercise caution to avoid adverse reactions.
Amber Teething Necklace
Amber teething necklaces are thought to emit natural oils with soothing effects when in contact with the skin. Supervision is crucial to prevent choking hazards.
Magnesium
Magnesium supplementation can ease teething symptoms in infants. It is gentle and natural, providing pain relief.
Teething relief powder
Weleda teething relief powder incorporates natural ingredients like chamomile and calendula to calm gums. Consult a naturopath before usage, especially if your baby has allergies.
Acupressure techniques
Acupressure techniques on specific points can alleviate teething discomfort. Apply gentle pressure and repeat as necessary throughout the day.
How long is teething going to last?
Teething symptoms may persist for a few days to weeks, varying among infants. By age 3, the full set of baby teeth typically emerges, with symptoms including gum sensitivity, drooling, irritability, disrupted sleep, and decreased appetite.
Although natural remedies can be beneficial for some babies, the potency and quality of natural remedies can differ. If home remedies are ineffective, consulting a children’s health naturopath for tailored support is recommended. Moreover, in the case of severe or prolonged symptoms, medical attention should be sought to rule out any underlying health concerns.