Has your smiley and sweet baby turned cranky, weepy and clingy? It is probably the start of the teething process. It is tough for them to suffer from the teeth eruption process. Pressure on your baby's teeth from chewing on something cool and hard may relieve their teething pain. Nonetheless, your baby's gums will be particularly sensitive.
Signs Your Baby is Teething
· Sore or tender gums
· Drooling
· Irritability
· Low-grade fever around 99 F
· Chewing
· Diarrhoea
· Drool or rash around the mouth
There's no set date when your baby's first tooth will arrive. Most babies start teething at around six months, but it can happen up to three months either side of that. Some babies are born with a tooth, whereas others have to wait until after their first birthday. However, it’s likely that your little one should have all their milk teeth by the time they are three years old.
Usually the lower teeth precede the upper teeth, and the incisors come first. That makes eight teeth, four in the upper and four in the lower. Then there is a break, and then this is followed by the first molars. The second molars and canines come last, and this will be around two and a half years to three years of age.
Here are a few tips to help you soothe your child through the teething process.
· Teething gels usually contain a mild anaesthetic and an antiseptic, which work together to ease pain and prevent infection. However, the effect wears off quickly and often the gel is washed away immediately by your baby’s tongue and saliva.
· Massage your baby gums
· Refrigerate a pacifier. Chilling a pacifier will make it even more soothing to your baby and may lightly numb the gums
· Try different types of teethers
· Serve chilled purees. Put pureed foods in the refrigerator prior to feeding your baby so the food is cool on their gums.
· Offer extra cuddles. If you’re nursing, offer the breast more than usual to ensure your baby is nourished and to provide additional comfort
· Use a Cold Washcloth to Soothe Sore Gums
It is recommended that once that first tooth appears to schedule your child’s first dental visit. Regular dental visits set the foundation for your child to have healthy gums and teeth. During the early years, it is a good idea to take them along whenever you have your dental check-up scheduled so that they can slowly get used to the idea of the dentist.
Contact us with any questions or to schedule your child’s first appointment today!
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