7 Helpful Tips for Helping Your Teething Baby

As a parent, you want your child to be comfortable and happy at all times, especially when they are going through the uncomfortable teething phase. Teething can be a stressful time for both the parent and the child, leaving you feeling helpless and frustrated. But, it’s important to understand that teething is a natural process that every child goes through. As a pediatric dentist, I wanted to share with you some helpful tips to make the process easier for your teething baby and to help you feel more in control.

What Age Does Teething Begin?

While teething can begin as early as 3 months, most likely you’ll see the first tooth start pushing through your baby’s gum line when your little one is between 4 and 7 months old.

The first teeth to appear usually are the two bottom front teeth, also known as the central incisors. They’re usually followed 4 to 8 weeks later by the four front upper teeth (central and lateral incisors). About a month later, the lower lateral incisors (the two teeth flanking the bottom front teeth) will appear.

Next to break through are the first molars (the back teeth used for grinding food), then finally the eyeteeth (the pointy teeth in the upper jaw). Most kids have all 20 of their primary teeth by their third birthday. (If your child’s teeth come in much slower than this, speak to your doctor.)

Teething Symptoms

The symptoms aren’t the same for every baby, but they may include:

• Swollen, tender gums
• Fussiness and crying
• A slightly raised temperature (less than 101 F)
• Gnawing or wanting to chew on hard things
• Lots of drool, which can cause a rash on their face
• Coughing
• Rubbing their cheek or pulling their ear
• Bringing their hands to their mouth
• Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

7 Helpful Tips for Helping Your Teething Baby

Provide something for them to chew on

Provide your baby with a cold, clean, and safe item they can chew on, such as a teething ring, a cold washcloth, or a chilled cucumber slice. Chewing on something can relieve the pressure they are experiencing from teething.

Rub their gums

Rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a cool, damp washcloth to offer relief during the teething process. This can be especially helpful right before they go to sleep to help them relax.

Pain relief medications

If the teething pain is severe, over-the-counter pain relievers or topical numbing agents can help. Make sure to speak with your pediatrician or dentist about the best medication and dosage for your child.

Offer cool foods and drinks

Cold foods and drinks can help to numb the pain of teething for your baby. Some examples include popsicles, smoothies, or chilled applesauce.

Keep your baby relaxed

Teething can be a stressful time, and anxiety and stress can make it worse for your child. Keep your child relaxed by talking to them softly, playing calming music, or giving them a warm bath.

Limit the use of pacifiers

Pacifiers can be comforting for your child, but they can also hinder the growth and development of their teeth. It’s important to limit the use of pacifiers and to avoid giving them to your child once their teeth start erupting.

Schedule a dental check-up

It’s important to have your child’s dentist monitor their teething progress and offer advice or treatment options if necessary. Schedule a dental check-up with your pediatric dentist to make sure your child’s teeth are developing normally.

Teething is a normal process that can be uncomfortable for your child. As a pediatric dentist, I understand how difficult it can be to see your child in pain. Hopefully, with these helpful tips, you can make the process easier for both you and your child. Make sure to provide your child with a cold item to chew on, offer pain relief medications if necessary, keep your child relaxed, limit the use of pacifiers, and schedule a dental check-up. Remember, your child’s dental health is important, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Make an Appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles

If your child is starting to show signs of teething, or if you have any concerns about their dental health, schedule an appointment with us at Li’l Sunshine Smiles. Our friendly and experienced staff will ensure that your little one’s teeth are healthy and strong as they continue to grow.