Teething in Babies
Teething in Babies: What Every Parent Should Know
In your baby's growth journey, teething is a significant event, although it can be very challenging. The pain that comes with teething can create distress for both babies and parents. Understanding how to soothe your baby, when to seek medical assistance, and how to navigate this phase requires knowledge. As a Pediatric dentist, allow me to explain how teething works and its implications for your baby's dental health.
What is Teething?
Teething is when your baby's first set of teeth, medically termed as primary teeth, breaks through the gums. This process begins around six months and lasts, with your baby's first teeth appearing between two and three months. While this process is uncomfortable, it is a natural part of life.
Your baby's primary teeth prepare them for a lifetime of good oral health. The incisors, canines, and molars will help in proper functioning and dental hygiene during later years. Providing adequate care during the early stages of your baby's mouth will help keep it healthy later in life.
Common Symptoms of Teething
Teething is a process that all babies undergo, and it usually has a set of common symptoms, including:
Drooling: Increased saliva release is one of the earliest signs of the teething process.
Irritability and Fussiness: There is a noticeable crankiness as Dopamine is released during teething.
Swollen, Tender Gums: There is some redness and swelling of the gums that is associated with the tooth.
Changes in Appetite: Due to some soreness, a subset of babies may reduce the amount of food they eat, while others may not.
Sleep Disruptions: The discomfort associated with teething will also impact daytime and nighttime sleep.
Teething shares some symptoms with several other illnesses, and it is crucial to distinguish them from one another. High temperatures and diarrhea are causes to talk to a doctor; these symptoms are not typically seen in teething.
The Phases of Teething: When to Expect What
As with most things, teething will be a gradual process, typically in these age brackets:
6-8 months: Emergence of the lower central incisors, commonly referred to as the bottom front teeth.
8-10 months: Emergence of the upper central incisors, referred to as the top front teeth.
10-14 months: Emergence of the upper and lower lateral incisors, commonly referred to as the side teeth.
16-20 months: Emergence of the first molars.
20-30 months: Emergence of the canines, technically known as the eye teeth.
2-3 years: The second molars are complete.
Each stage may shift by a few months due to the unique and individual nature of your baby's development.
How Teething Impacts a Baby's Oral Health
Teething does not inflict any permanent damage by itself, but it is crucial to instill proper oral cleansing habits from a young age. The first teeth that emerge in babies may be transient, but they do serve a purpose in the child's dental development. Primary teeth, even though they are temporary, are important in chewing, speaking, and in the proper positioning of the adult teeth.
Well-balanced habits may also be instilled during the teething period. It is vital to use a soft cloth to gently wipe the baby's gums even before the teeth emerge. Shortly after the first tooth breaks through, a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste should be used to brush their teeth.
How to Calm a Baby That Is Teething
There are specific ways to help teething babies that you, as a parent, can do:
Teething Rings: Teething rings can be great, provided they are free from BPA and considered safe. For some babies, a cool teething ring can be helpful.
Cold Washcloths: A clean cloth can be wet and then stored in the fridge. After some time, chewing on it can help numb the gums.
Gum Massage: To ease some discomfort, gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger.
Pain relief: Consult with your pediatrician to determine if over-the-counter pain relief, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen, is suitable for your child.
Avoid using amber necklaces or other controversial teething remedies, as they can be hazardous.
When Should You Seek Out a Pediatric Dentist?
Even though teething is a part of your baby's natural growth, some symptoms require consulting a dentist:
If your baby is experiencing significant pain and discomfort.
Notable signs of infection (e.g., pus or marks) are emerging.
Pain caused by teething is interfering with feeding or sleep.
There are concerns around abnormal tooth eruption and alignment.
A pediatric dentist can monitor your baby's teething milestones and guide dental hygiene. It's advisable to visit a pediatric dentist before a baby turns one or around the time the first tooth erupts.
Important Points
Around six months of age, babies typically start teething, a process that continues until they are 2 to 3 years old.
Some symptoms are: drooling, irritable moods, swollen gums, and sleep disturbances.
Prescribing cold, teething toys, and gentle gum massages can be effective in easing discomfort.
Taking care of teeth should start early, and even before the first tooth comes out, care should be given.
Especially if your child seems to be suffering from acute pain, a tooth infection, or has problems with teeth coming loose, then you should consult a pediatric dentist.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. When should a child start teething?
Teething typically begins around 6 months of age, although the exact age range varies from child to child.
2. Does teething lead to a high temperature?
Teething rarely leads to a high fever, and if your child does develop a fever, their temperature should be closer to 100.4°F to ensure it is within the normal range.
3. How can I assist with my baby's teething pain?
Over-the-counter pain relievers that your pediatrician recommends may also help relieve pain.
4. When is the right time to take my baby for a dental checkup?
Take your child for their first dental checkup around their first birthday, or upon the emergence of their first tooth.
5. Is it common for my baby to lose their appetite while teething?
Typically, this change is common during teething, as the baby's gums become sensitive.
Knowing how to help your child during teething will simplify this process for both you and your little one. For tailored assistance, please feel free to contact our office to schedule a visit with our pediatric dentist.
Teething in Babies: What Every Parent Should Know
In your baby's growth journey, teething is a significant event, although it can be very challenging. The pain that comes with teething can create distress for both babies and parents. Understanding how to soothe your baby, when to seek medical assistance, and how to navigate this phase requires knowledge. As a Pediatric dentist, allow me to explain how teething works and its implications for your baby's dental health.
What is Teething?
Teething is when your baby's first set of teeth, medically termed as primary teeth, breaks through the gums. This process begins around six months and lasts, with your baby's first teeth appearing between two and three months. While this process is uncomfortable, it is a natural part of life.
Your baby's primary teeth prepare them for a lifetime of good oral health. The incisors, canines, and molars will help in proper functioning and dental hygiene during later years. Providing adequate care during the early stages of your baby's mouth will help keep it healthy later in life.
Common Symptoms of Teething
Teething is a process that all babies undergo, and it usually has a set of common symptoms, including:
Drooling: Increased saliva release is one of the earliest signs of the teething process.
Irritability and Fussiness: There is a noticeable crankiness as Dopamine is released during teething.
Swollen, Tender Gums: There is some redness and swelling of the gums that is associated with the tooth.
Changes in Appetite: Due to some soreness, a subset of babies may reduce the amount of food they eat, while others may not.
Sleep Disruptions: The discomfort associated with teething will also impact daytime and nighttime sleep.
Teething shares some symptoms with several other illnesses, and it is crucial to distinguish them from one another. High temperatures and diarrhea are causes to talk to a doctor; these symptoms are not typically seen in teething.
The Phases of Teething: When to Expect What
As with most things, teething will be a gradual process, typically in these age brackets:
6-8 months: Emergence of the lower central incisors, commonly referred to as the bottom front teeth.
8-10 months: Emergence of the upper central incisors, referred to as the top front teeth.
10-14 months: Emergence of the upper and lower lateral incisors, commonly referred to as the side teeth.
16-20 months: Emergence of the first molars.
20-30 months: Emergence of the canines, technically known as the eye teeth.
2-3 years: The second molars are complete.
Each stage may shift by a few months due to the unique and individual nature of your baby's development.
How Teething Impacts a Baby's Oral Health
Teething does not inflict any permanent damage by itself, but it is crucial to instill proper oral cleansing habits from a young age. The first teeth that emerge in babies may be transient, but they do serve a purpose in the child's dental development. Primary teeth, even though they are temporary, are important in chewing, speaking, and in the proper positioning of the adult teeth.
Well-balanced habits may also be instilled during the teething period. It is vital to use a soft cloth to gently wipe the baby's gums even before the teeth emerge. Shortly after the first tooth breaks through, a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste should be used to brush their teeth.
How to Calm a Baby That Is Teething
There are specific ways to help teething babies that you, as a parent, can do:
Teething Rings: Teething rings can be great, provided they are free from BPA and considered safe. For some babies, a cool teething ring can be helpful.
Cold Washcloths: A clean cloth can be wet and then stored in the fridge. After some time, chewing on it can help numb the gums.
Gum Massage: To ease some discomfort, gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger.
Pain relief: Consult with your pediatrician to determine if over-the-counter pain relief, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen, is suitable for your child.
Avoid using amber necklaces or other controversial teething remedies, as they can be hazardous.
When Should You Seek Out a Pediatric Dentist?
Even though teething is a part of your baby's natural growth, some symptoms require consulting a dentist:
If your baby is experiencing significant pain and discomfort.
Notable signs of infection (e.g., pus or marks) are emerging.
Pain caused by teething is interfering with feeding or sleep.
There are concerns around abnormal tooth eruption and alignment.
A pediatric dentist can monitor your baby's teething milestones and guide dental hygiene. It's advisable to visit a pediatric dentist before a baby turns one or around the time the first tooth erupts.
Important Points
Around six months of age, babies typically start teething, a process that continues until they are 2 to 3 years old.
Some symptoms are: drooling, irritable moods, swollen gums, and sleep disturbances.
Prescribing cold, teething toys, and gentle gum massages can be effective in easing discomfort.
Taking care of teeth should start early, and even before the first tooth comes out, care should be given.
Especially if your child seems to be suffering from acute pain, a tooth infection, or has problems with teeth coming loose, then you should consult a pediatric dentist.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. When should a child start teething?
Teething typically begins around 6 months of age, although the exact age range varies from child to child.
2. Does teething lead to a high temperature?
Teething rarely leads to a high fever, and if your child does develop a fever, their temperature should be closer to 100.4°F to ensure it is within the normal range.
3. How can I assist with my baby's teething pain?
Over-the-counter pain relievers that your pediatrician recommends may also help relieve pain.
4. When is the right time to take my baby for a dental checkup?
Take your child for their first dental checkup around their first birthday, or upon the emergence of their first tooth.
5. Is it common for my baby to lose their appetite while teething?
Typically, this change is common during teething, as the baby's gums become sensitive.
Knowing how to help your child during teething will simplify this process for both you and your little one. For tailored assistance, please feel free to contact our office to schedule a visit with our pediatric dentist.
