Most babies start teething around the time they are 6 months old, though some kids may begin the process earlier or later. It can be an exciting time! It is a sign that your baby is growing up, and you may find a lot of joy as you watch their beautiful smile develop. However, teething can also be stressful; incoming teeth may cause some discomfort for babies! How can you tell if your baby is teething, and what can you do to comfort them? This blog post provides some helpful information from an experienced Glen Ellyn pediatric dentist.
Signs That Your Baby Is Teething
Even before that first pearly white emerges, you may notice some signs that your child is teething:
- Drooling. Increased saliva production is common during teething.
- Irritability and fussiness. Teething can cause discomfort, leading to changes in mood.
- Poor quality sleep. The discomfort from teething can disrupt your baby’s usual sleep patterns.
- A desire to chew. Your child might start to chew on anything they can reach. This is a natural response to the pressure of new teeth coming in.
- Swollen or sensitive gums. The area where a new tooth is emerging can become tender.
- A low-grade fever. Your baby could be experiencing a slight increase in body temperature, though it is important to note that teething should not cause a high or dangerous fever.
How to Comfort Your Baby
There are several strategies you can use to help soothe your baby during the teething process. Here are a few practical tips:
- Offer your baby a clean, cold teething ring. The cool temperature can help numb the gums and provide relief. (Important note: Do not freeze the teething rings. Placing them in the refrigerator is better.)
- Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger. This can help alleviate some of the pressure and discomfort.
- Provide your baby with a cold, damp washcloth to chew on. The texture and temperature can be soothing.
- Ensure that your baby has safe and appropriate teething toys to chew on. These can help distract them and reduce discomfort.
- Keep your baby’s chin dry by wiping away drool frequently. This can prevent skin irritation.
- Consider using over-the-counter pain relief designed for infants. Use the appropriate dosage, and consult with a qualified medical professional before providing medication.
- Provide lots of cuddles and attention. If possible, take a bit of extra time to cuddle with your baby. Your presence and love can reassure them and help improve their mood.
Ask Your Pediatric Dentist for Assistance
Your pediatric dentist can be a valuable resource during the teething process. Try to schedule an appointment with them within 6 months of the eruption of your child’s first tooth (no later than their first birthday). During the appointment, the dentist can provide tips to help you care for your baby’s teeth and offer other practical guidance for this exciting stage of their development.
Teething is a milestone in your baby’s life! Do all you can to make the experience easier for your family.
Meet the Practice
At Glen Ellyn Pediatric Dentistry, our team features several highly skilled dentists. We love working with kids of all ages, and we are pros when it comes to navigating the teething process! If you have questions or concerns about your baby’s oral health or development, we would be pleased to speak with you. Reach out to our office at 630-858-8755.