Teething can be an unpleasant time for both babies and their families. The good news is that there are lots of different things you can try to relieve any discomfort.
If you’ve ever had questions about teething, we have the answers.
The Pain of Teething
First teeth usually start coming in anywhere between the age of 3 or 4 months, right up until after the one year mark. Typically, the first to come in are the two lower middle teeth at the bottom, but the beauty of babies is that they’re all different!
Your poor little one may appear to be in such agony as these teeth start to appear, especially at night time when there are fewer distractions and the pain wakes them up. However, the good news is that the pain usually only ever lasts a few days before subsiding.
Younger babies may seem to suffer a little bit more, because pain is very new to them. By the age of two or three when they have all their baby teeth, teething pain stops altogether.
Signs Your Baby Is Teething
There are a few different signs you should look out for if your baby is teething.
- Being sulky
- Crying more than usual
- Red or swollen gums
- Drooling a lot
- Refusing food
- Not sleeping well
- Face rubbing
- Ear pulling
- Increased chewing, biting and sucking
When your child has a few of these symptoms at the same time, it’s usually a pretty good indication they’re teething. However, be aware that it may not be the only cause, and you should check with a doctor if you have any concerns.
Thankfully, the pain of teething doesn’t last forever. Usually, it’s over in a few days.
Help Your Baby While Teething
Parents often report feeling powerless when their little ones are upset, but when you’ve figured out that it’s because of teething, there are a few things you can try!
With clean fingers, you can try giving your baby’s gums a massage. The idea is that the gentle pressure you’re applying can allow some brief relief.
Alternatively, many mums and dads let their baby try chewing on teething toys. You could also try chilling a damp washcloth (just make sure it’s not frozen). Some let them chew on amber teething necklaces, but be careful - they can be a choking hazard and their benefits are unproven.
If pain continues, talk to your child’s doctor. They may be able to prescribe some safe pain medication.
How May Their Routines Change?
When babies are teething, it’s natural that they may not act like their usual selves. Look out for changes to their eating habits, especially if they’re breastfeeding.
Some will want to nurse more for comfort while teething. Be careful as they may bite! This is a great time to massage their gums if they do so. Other babies won’t want to nurse at all as it may be too uncomfortable for them. If they won't eat at all, please speak to your doctor.
A common myth about teething is that it leads to more dirty nappies. It’s usually a coincidence - teething tends to kick in around the same that they move to trying more solid foods.
Brushing Teeth
Once your baby gets their first tooth, congratulations - it’s time to start brushing. Tooth decay can happen at any time, so it’s important to fight it as soon as possible.
Rub or brush their baby teeth twice a day. There’s no need to use toothpaste until they’re a little older, because they don’t understand and will swallow it. It’s okay to just use water!
Visiting A Dentist
Babies should start seeing a dentist as soon as they get their first tooth or by their first birthday, whichever happens earliest.
To book an appointment for your teething baby at one of our smilogy centres, call us now on 02 8005 4434.