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Teething in Babies | LYGOS DENTAL 2024

Teething in Babies

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Teething in Babies: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
The teething phase is a significant developmental milestone for babies and can often be a difficult period for parents to handle. Understanding the process, recognizing symptoms, and knowing how to provide relief can make this journey smoother for both you and your baby. This guide will cover all the essential aspects of teething in babies, from identifying symptoms to caring for those precious new teeth.

What Is Teething?
Teething describes the natural process in which a baby’s first teeth, commonly called primary or milk teeth, start to push through the gums. This usually begins around 4 to 7 months of age, although it can vary widely from one child to another. The teething process lasts until all 20 primary teeth have appeared, typically by the age of three. Teething marks a crucial step in your baby’s development, as these teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, and maintaining space for future adult teeth. While exciting, it often comes with discomfort for the baby, requiring extra care and patience from parents.

Teething Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of teething can help you prepare for and address your baby’s needs. Common signs of teething in babies include:
  • 1.Increased Drooling
  • One of the common signs of teething is increased saliva production, which may sometimes result in a rash around the baby’s mouth or chin.
  • 2. Chewing and Biting
  • Babies often chew on their hands, toys, or other objects to ease the discomfort caused by pressure on their gums.
  • 3.Irritability and Fussiness
  • Sore gums can make babies crankier than usual.
  • 4. Swollen or Red Gums
  • You may observe noticeable changes in the gums, such as swelling or discoloration, at the site where a tooth is about to break through.
  • 5. Sleep Disturbances
  • Teething discomfort may cause trouble falling or staying asleep.
  • 6. Loss of Appetite
  • Sore gums can make eating painful, leading to reduced interest in feeding.
  • 7. Low-Grade Fever
  • A slight increase in temperature is possible but should not exceed 101°F (38.3°C).

Teething vs. Ear Infection
Teething symptoms can sometimes be confused with signs of an ear infection, as both conditions may cause discomfort and irritability. However, there are some differences. Teething-related ear pulling is usually mild and brief, while an ear infection typically involves persistent ear tugging and is often accompanied by prolonged crying. Fever associated with teething is usually mild, whereas ear infections are more likely to cause a higher, sustained fever. Nasal congestion is a common sign of an ear infection but is rare in teething babies. If your baby seems particularly unwell or if symptoms persist, it’s best to consult a pediatrician to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

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Teething Stages
Teething progresses through distinct stages as your baby’s teeth emerge over time. In the early months (0–3 months), babies begin exploring their mouths, though no teeth have appeared yet. The first teeth, which are usually the lower front teeth (central incisors), tend to appear when the baby is between 4 and 7 months old. From 8 to 16 months, several more teeth emerge, including the upper incisors and molars, which can cause increased discomfort. Finally, between 20 and 30 months, the second molars appear, completing the full set of 20 primary teeth. Each stage brings unique challenges, but knowing what to expect can help you prepare for and manage your baby’s needs.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby
Soothe your baby’s teething discomfort by using a combination of safe and effective methods. Providing teething toys made of firm rubber can help, as chewing on these relieves gum pressure. Using a cold compress, such as a chilled washcloth, can numb the gums and reduce inflammation. Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can provide temporary relief, while chilled, soft foods like yogurt or applesauce can soothe their gums and keep them nourished. Engaging your baby in play or singing to distract them from discomfort can also be an effective way to calm them during this challenging time.

Natural Remedies for Teething
For parents seeking holistic solutions, these natural remedies can provide relief:
  • Chamomile Tea: Chamomile’s soothing properties may help. Use a cooled, damp chamomile tea bag on the gums or consult your pediatrician about chamomile drops.
  • Amber Teething Necklaces: While some parents believe in their anti-inflammatory effects, their safety is controversial and requires supervision.
  • Frozen Fruit in a Mesh Feeder: This method allows your baby to safely chew on cold, soothing fruit pieces.
  • Clove Oil (Diluted): A small amount of diluted clove oil can be gently massaged onto the gums for natural pain relief.

Teething Treatments to Avoid
While many remedies can provide relief, some treatments should be avoided due to safety concerns. Products containing benzocaine or lidocaine are not recommended, as they can pose serious health risks to infants. Over-the-counter teething tablets have been flagged for containing unsafe ingredients like belladonna. Freezing teething toys may seem like a good idea, but extremely cold objects can harm sensitive gum tissue. Parents should also avoid giving honey or alcohol-based solutions, as these are unsafe for infants. Sticking to methods that are safe and backed by evidence is the most effective way to ensure your baby remains comfortable during teething.

How to Care for Your Baby’s New Teeth
Taking care of your baby’s teeth as they begin to emerge is critical for developing good oral hygiene habits. You can clean your baby’s first teeth with a soft, damp cloth to remove any leftover milk or food particles after feeding. Once additional teeth start to appear, transition to using a soft-bristled toothbrush and introduce a small amount of fluoride toothpaste when your baby reaches one year of age. Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle, as prolonged exposure to milk or juice can lead to tooth decay. Scheduling a dental checkup by your baby’s first birthday is an excellent way to ensure their teeth and gums are developing properly. Limiting sugary snacks and beverages can also protect your baby’s teeth and prevent cavities.

Conclusion
Teething in babies is a developmental phase that can be both exciting and challenging. By learning about the teething process, recognizing its symptoms, and using appropriate remedies, parents can make this developmental phase more manageable for their babies. Remember, every baby’s teething journey is unique, so patience and adaptability are key. For persistent concerns or severe symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician. With proper care and attention, this phase will soon be a memory, and your baby will flash a happy, toothy grin in no time! You can contact our expert team for more detailed information about teething in babies. 

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