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How to Treat the Symptoms of Teething

September 1, 2020

How to Treat the Symptoms of Teething

Seeing those tiny bumps forming on a baby’s gums is an exciting moment for every parent, but unfortunately, teething can cause pain and discomfort. You and your little one don’t have to deal with sleepless nights. Understanding the symptoms of teething and ways you can help will allow you to enjoy this magical milestone.

When Does Teething Begin?

While the teething timeline isn’t the same for every child, most babies start teething between 4 and 7 months of age. The two bottom front teeth are usually the first to come in, followed by the two upper front teeth. Most toddlers have their full set of 20 baby teeth by age 3. A tell-tale bump on the gums is usually the first sign a tiny tooth is ready to make an appearance.

What Are the Symptoms of Teething?

Symptoms of teething may vary from child to child. These include red, swollen and tender gums, excessive drooling, a rash around the mouth, ear pulling, fussiness, irritability, a slight increase in temperature (not a fever), an increased desire to gnaw, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

Teething may be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t cause signs of illness. If your baby has a high fever, cough, runny nose, diarrhea, or vomiting, something more than teething is likely going on. We recommend contacting your child’s pediatrician for evaluation and treatment.

How Can You Treat the Symptoms of Teething?

Here are some dos and don’ts to help soothe and comfort your teething baby:

Dos: Allow your baby to chew on a clean, cold cloth or rag to help decrease inflammation. You can also massage those sore gums with a clean finger or gauze. You may want to offer your baby chilled foods such as yogurt or applesauce, or frozen fruit (if your baby is on solids). Another option is providing a refrigerated (not frozen) pacifier or teething ring.

Teething babies love to chew, so an unsweetened teething biscuit can provide comfort, but make sure you don’t offer these before your child is eight months old. If your little one is inconsolable, talk to your pediatrician or pediatric dentist about pain medication.

Don’ts: It’s important to keep your baby safe while dealing with the teething blues. Avoid using topical medications containing lidocaine or benzocaine and stay away from herbal products, which often do more harm than good. Never give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen without checking with your child’s healthcare provider first. Moreover, beware of teething necklaces, bracelets, or anklets due to the risk of choking, strangulation, or injury.

Quality Pediatric Dentistry in Phoenix, AZ

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit after the first tooth arrives and no later than the first birthday. Your trusted team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry will help you establish proper oral practices to lay the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Are you ready to get your little one’s smile off to a great start? Call us and schedule your appointment today!