The teething phase is an exciting yet challenging time in your baby’s life, marking the emergence of their first teeth. While this development is crucial, it can also bring discomfort. With insights from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), here’s a guide to help your baby through teething with ease.
Identifying Teething Symptoms
Teething usually starts around 6 months, but onset can vary. Common signs include:
- Excessive Drooling: Increased saliva is a typical early teething indicator.
- Gnawing on Objects: Babies may prefer chewing on anything that alleviates gum discomfort.
- Crankiness: The discomfort from gum pressure can make your baby irritable.
- Tender Gums: Watch for red, swollen gums where teeth are about to appear.
- Disrupted Routines: Teething can interrupt eating and sleeping patterns.
How to Alleviate Teething Discomfort
Here are some recommended methods to provide relief during teething:
- Gum Massage: Use clean fingers to apply gentle pressure to your baby’s gums.
- Cooling Relief: Give your baby a chilled, not frozen, teething ring for soothing.
- Safe Chewables: Provide BPA-free teething toys for safe chewing.
- Start Oral Hygiene Early: Begin cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft cloth and introduce a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste with an infant toothbrush once teeth erupt.
- Engage with Play: Distract your baby with activities they enjoy to lessen discomfort focus.
Consulting a Dentist: When to Seek Help
Though teething is natural, consult a dentist if:
- Your baby experiences prolonged irritability or fever.
- Persistent feed refusal affects their nutrition.
- You observe unusual gum swelling or rash.
- Any signs of possible infection are present.
The AAPD advises an initial dental visit by your child’s first birthday or within six months after the eruption of the first tooth.