The development of teeth is an important step in the developmental process of a child, but the coming in of teeth is synonymous with pain and annoyance. Often, parents find it challenging to keep off the pain while at the same time ensuring proper oral development. In this article, we will look into the teething process, basic signs and symptoms, remedies from the experts, and important tips to assist parents with teething pain.
Introduction
The lovely days of the first twelve months in a child’s life are full of wonderful growth; among these occurs one of the most crucial phases–teething. Though the coming of baby teeth is an exciting affair, in reality, it is a very challenging phase because of all the discomfort and irritation the child must endure.
Having an understanding of what teething is and knowing how to somewhat ease the symptoms can become the reward in making the journey less hard for both mothers and babies. Earlier in our blog post, we shared home remedies for wisdom tooth pain, which helped our readers a lot, ending their queries regarding wisdom teeth.
Understanding Teething in Babies
While each infant goes through this process in her own way, there is generally a timeline that tooth eruption will follow.
1. Teething Timeline: When Do Babies Start Teething?
Most babies start teething during the first few months, but some could start earlier or later.
a. Typical Age for First Tooth Eruption
The first tooth typically erupts between the 4th and 7th months, even though some babies may begin teething as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. The eventual eruption of all the primary teeth takes place around three years of age.
b. Tooth Eruption Sequence
Typically, the lower and upper consolation incisors show up first. Then come the lateral incisors, first molars, canines, and second molars.
2. Allowing Teething Symptoms
A parent must recognize teething symptoms so they can relieve the baby in a timely manner.
a. Common Teething Symptoms
- Drooling that seems excessive.
- Irritability and fussiness
- Swollen gums
- Lots of biting and chewing
- Trouble sleeping
- Slight fever (though a high one is unrelated to teething)
b. Differences Between Teething and Other Discomforts
Since symptoms such as fussiness or mild fever could mask another illness, parents must keep a careful eye on their baby. A fever higher than 101°F, accompanied by diarrhea or unusually loud crying, would point to some concern unrelated to teething.
Top Remedies to Soothe Teething Pain in Babies
Teething pain in babies can be alleviated with safe and time-tested remedies.
1. Natural Remedies and Home Cures
Simple remedies are sometimes used by at-home parents to comfort the teething babies.
a. Decrease Temperature on Gums
Cold temperatures numb the pain and reduce inflammation. A parent can provide chilled teething rings, a cold washcloth, or a spoon to the baby for relief.
b. Gentle Massage of Gums to Provide Comfort
Using a clean finger to massage the gums gently stimulates the blood flow and relieves the irritation.
2. Teething Aids and OTC Products
Numerous products can help alleviate teething pain.
a. The Best Teething Toys for Babies
BPA-free silicone teething rings, soft rubber toys, and textured teethers allow the baby to chew safely and thus relieve pressure on their gums.
b. Medications and Gels That Are Safe to Use
If the pain seems unbearable, the pediatrician may recommend infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen in suitable doses. Parents should consider avoiding teething gels with benzocaine, as they pose potential health risks.
How Can Parents Support Their Baby While Teething?
Aside from remedies, emotional support and preventive measures hold significance during the teething phase.
1. Comfort Techniques to Enjoy a Little Fuss-free Teething Journey
Simple, easy techniques really help with making teething a little easier for both parent and baby.
a. Lots of Cuddling and Comforting
Holding, cuddling, and talking to the baby would quite possibly take the little one’s mind off his/her discomfort while providing emotional reassurance.
b. Safe Chewing Encouraged
Safe teething objects mean babies are chewing safely rather than biting on unsafe things.
2. Oral Care: While Teething and Afterward
Instilling a good oral care regimen can aid in developing good dental health.
a. Cleaning Baby’s Gums and Emerging Teeth
They ought to gently wipe their baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth, moving on to soft-bristled infant toothbrushes after a bit.
b. End the Harmful Practices During Teething
Parents should avoid giving teething biscuits with sugar, as they may contribute to early tooth decay. Sugary or acidic foods are harmful to the baby’s teeth and can erode the enamel.
Conclusion
Teething is a natural and sometimes painful stage in the life of a baby. While some discomfort cannot be helped, understanding the symptoms of teething, using methods that bring relief, and offering emotional support to the child can ease the whole process.
Parents may want to relieve the baby’s pain by means of remedies supported by experts, such as cold therapy, gum massages, and teething toys. Furthermore, these remedies are coupled with unhealthy oral habits that do not equate to good dental care for a lifetime. With patience and knowledge, the majority of parents will help their little ones through comfortable teething, paving the way for a strong, healthy smile in return.
