Teething — it’s a milestone that all babies go through, and it can be a trying time for both parents and little ones. As teeth start to break through the gums, your baby may experience discomfort, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.
Fortunately, there are several safe and effective ways to soothe your baby’s teething troubles. Tooth Fairy Dental Care offers guidance on how to manage teething in infants and promote good oral health from an early age.
When does teething start?
Baby teeth typically begin to emerge between six months and one year of age. However, some babies may get their first tooth as early as three months or as late as 14 months. Every child is different, so don’t worry if your baby’s teeth come in on a slightly different timeline than their peers.
Common signs of teething in babies
Teething can cause a range of symptoms in babies, including:
- Increased drooling
- Irritability or fussiness
- Swollen or tender gums
- Difficulty sleeping
- Biting or gnawing on objects
Babies may also experience mild to moderate pain while teething. However, if your baby is experiencing severe pain, fever, or diarrhea, it’s essential to consult with your pediatrician, as these symptoms may be unrelated to teething.
Easing your baby’s teething discomfort
While you can’t make the process of teething go any faster, there are several safe and effective ways to help ease your baby’s discomfort:
- Gently massage their gums with a clean finger or a wet gauze pad.
- Offer them a cold teething ring or washcloth to chew on. The pressure and coolness can help relieve pain and discomfort.
- Try giving them solid, cool foods like applesauce or pureed fruit if they’re already eating solids.
- Use a damp washcloth to wipe away excess drool and prevent skin irritation.
- Use an over-the-counter pain reliever specifically designed for infants as recommended by your pediatrician.
Starting oral hygiene practices early
As soon as your baby’s first tooth emerges, it’s essential to start practicing good oral hygiene habits. Even though the baby teeth will eventually fall out, it’s important to keep them clean and healthy to prevent any future dental problems. Adult teeth develop directly under baby teeth, so any decay or infection can affect the development of permanent teeth.
To care for your baby’s teeth and gums, gently wipe their mouth with a soft cloth after feedings. As more teeth come in, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush specifically designed for infants to clean their teeth twice a day. Once your child is old enough, teach them how to brush their own teeth properly. Schedule their first dentist visit within six months of the first tooth emerging or no later than their first birthday.
Support during teething at Tooth Fairy Dental Care
At Tooth Fairy Dental Care, we understand that teething can be a challenging time for both babies and parents. Our team is here to provide guidance on infant oral care and offer support during this milestone. Schedule an appointment with us today.