Your Infant is Teething: Know the Signs and Symptoms

Teething can be a time of great frustration for caregivers, in this post I will list some of the most common symptoms, explain how they relate to teething and share some insight on how to help soothe your little one during this potentially uncomfortable time.

When Does Teething Begin for Infants?

Teething usually starts around four to eight months with the lower front teeth and continues until 30-36 months of age when the last set of molars appear. During the teething period there are symptoms that include irritability, disrupted sleep, swelling or inflammation of the gums, drooling, loss of appetite, rash around the mouth, mild temperature, diarrhea, increased biting and gum-rubbing and even ear-rubbing. These symptoms were reported by 70-80 percent of parents according to an article from the British Dental Journal. So, why don’t all infants experience teething symptoms? Keep reading to find out.

Why Teething Symptoms May Be Confused with Cold Symptoms

Research has pointed out that teething begins around six months of age. This is the same time when an infant’s immunities they received from their mother, via the placenta, are diminishing. This means that the infant’s own immune system is becoming established. During this time, infants become vulnerable to minor infections. Because these two changes are taking place, the symptoms of teething can be confused with a minor illness or cold and visa versa. This explains why only 70-80 percent of parents reported teething symptoms of their infant; it’s very likely that parents of the remaining 20-30 percent associated the symptoms to a minor illness or cold.

Below is a list of commonly reported teething symptoms, with ways to help your infant at home and when to call the doctor:

• Irritability
• Drooling/Skin Rashes
• Coughing
• Biting and Gnawing
• Low Grade Fever
• Cheek rubbing and ear pulling
• Diarrhea

Irritability

This is caused by the discomfort of the teeth erupting through the gums. Often the first teeth and molars are the most uncomfortable.

How to help your infant’s irritability: Cuddle, cuddle, cuddle! Every baby can use some good cuddle time when they are having a hard time with teething. The extra time spent with your baby can help alleviate their pain, by providing feelings of being comforted and reassured.

Drooling/Skin Rashes

Teething can stimulate drooling and many babies drool a lot!

How to help your infant’s drooling: Excessive drooling can cause a rash around the mouth, cheeks, chin and neck area due to the extra bacteria on the skin from the saliva. Try to keep the area as clean and as dry as possible by periodically wiping the area. Applying a simple barrier cream can help with the dry, chapped and sore skin.

Coughing

The extra saliva produced during teething can cause an occasional cough or gag.

How to help your infant’s coughing: If your infant’s cough continues or is accompanied by a high fever and cold or flu symptoms, contact your infant’s pediatrician. The high fever with cold and flu symptoms is not related to teething, but is actually a sign that your infant is sick.

Biting and Gnawing

The counter pressure from biting on practically anything can alleviate the pressure from under the gums.

How to help your infant’s biting and gnawing: Anything cold works great! My best friend mixes water with the pouches of baby food and freezes them to make fruit and veggie popsicles. There are teething rings, chew beads and any commercially bought teething toys can help, especially when chilled or frozen.

Low Grade Fever

A low grade fever is defined and caused by the following:

• A temperature ranging from 98-100 degrees.
• It can be caused by an infant putting their unclean hands in their mouth.

If the fever reaches above 101 degrees or continues, contact your infant’s pediatrician because it may not be the teething but a more serious illness.

How to help your infant’s low grade fever: Use an age-appropriate pain medication and please consult your infant’s pediatrician and the medication label for correct dosage.

Cheek rubbing and ear pulling

This is caused by pain in the gums, which can travel to the cheek and ear, especially when the molars are erupting. Infants will rub those areas.  Keep in mind that ear pulling or rubbing can also be a sign of an ear infection, please contact your infant’s pediatrician if this symptom continues or is accompanied with a high fever.

How to help your infant’s cheek rubbing and ear pulling: Try rubbing and massaging the gums with a clean finger for one to two minutes to help with the discomfort.

Teething and Diarrhea

Many believe that the increased saliva produced during teething can cause stool to become slightly loose.Keep in mind, diarrhea can be a sign of a more serious infection so contact your infant’s pediatrician if the stool becomes watery, because your infant could be at risk for dehydration. Contacting your infant’s pediatrician is especially important if the diarrhea is accompanied by vomiting or a high fever.

I hope the list of symptoms and ways you can help your infant will guide you through your infant’s teething phase. I also hope this helps ease the potential stress experienced by many parents. Just remember, that many symptoms we think are teething can be associated with illness, may be completely unrelated to teething and may need to be addressed by a physician.

Related Content

Baby’s First Tooth: 7 Facts Parents Should Know

​​​​​By: Dina DiMaggio, MD, FAAP & Julie Cernigliaro, DMD

1.  Most babies will develop teeth between 6 and 12 months.

There is a wide range of variability of when a first tooth may appear—some babies may not have any teeth by their first birthday! Around 3 months of age, babies will begin exploring the world with their mouth and have increased saliva and start to put their hands in their mouth. Many parents question whether or not this means that their baby is teething, but a first tooth usually appears around 6 months old. Typically, the first teeth to come in are almost always the lower front teeth (the lower central incisors), and most children will usually have all of their baby teeth by age 3.

2.  Fluoride should be added to your child’s diet at 6 months of age.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by hardening the enamel of teeth. The good news is that fluoride is often added to tap water. Give your baby a few ounces of water in a sippy or straw cup when you begin him or her on solid foods (about 6 months of age). Speak with your pediatrician to see if your tap water contains fluoride or whether your child needs fluoride supplements. Fluoride is not typically found in most bottled water. See FAQ: Fluoride and Children for more information.

3.  Massaging sore gums, offering something cold, or acetaminophen, on an occasional rough night, can help soothe your baby’s teething pain.

Usually teething doesn’t cause children too much discomfort, however, many parents can tell when their baby is teething. Babies may show signs of discomfort in the area where the tooth is coming in, the gums around the tooth may be swollen and tender, and the baby may drool a lot more than usual.

Parents can help ease teething pain by massaging their baby’s gums with clean fingers, offering solid, not liquid-filled, teething rings, or a clean frozen or wet washcloth. If you offer a teething biscuit, make sure to watch your baby while he or she is eating it. Chunks can break off easily and can lead to choking. Also, these biscuits are not very nutritious and most contain sugar and salt.

A baby’s body temperature may slightly rise when teething; however, according to a 2016 study in Pediatrics, a true fever (temperature over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) is not associated with teething and is actually a sign of an illness or infection that may require treatment. If your baby is clearly uncomfortable, talk with your pediatrician about giving a weight-appropriate dose of acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or if over 6 months, ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin). Make sure to ask your pediatrician for the right dose in milliliters (mL) based on your child’s age and weight.

Many children, however, will have no problems at all when their teeth come in!

4.  Do not use teething tablets, gels with benzocaine, homeopathic teething gels or tablets, or amber teething necklaces.

Stay away from teething tablets that contain the plant poison belladonna and gels with benzocaine. Belladonna and benzocaine are marketed to numb your child’s pain, but the FDA has issued warnings against both due to potential side effects.

In addition, amber teething necklaces are not recommended. Necklaces placed around an infant’s neck can pose a strangulation risk or be a potential choking hazard. There is also no research to support the necklace’s effectiveness. See Teething Necklaces and Beads: A Caution for Parents for more information.

5.  You should brush your child’s teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

Once your child has a tooth, you should be brushing them twice a day with a smear of fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice, especially after the last drink or food of the day. Remember not to put your baby to bed with a bottle—it can lead to tooth decay.

Once your child turns 3, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)recommend that a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste be used when brushing. When your child is able, teach him or her to spit out the excess toothpaste. It is best if you put the toothpaste on the toothbrush until your child is about age 6. Parents should monitor and assist their child while brushing until he or she is around 7 or 8 years old. When your child can write his or her name well, he or she also has the ability to brush well.

6.  Ask your pediatrician about your baby’s teeth and fluoride varnish.

During regular well-child visits, your pediatrician will check your baby’s teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy and talk to you about how to keep them that way.  The AAP and the United States Preventive Services Task Force also recommend that children receive fluoride varnish once they have teeth. If your child does not yet have a dentist, ask your pediatrician if he or she can apply fluoride varnish to your baby’s teeth. Once your child has a dentist, the varnish can be applied in the dental office. The earlier your child receives fluoride varnish the better to help prevent tooth decay.

7.  Make your first dental appointment when the first tooth appears.

Try to make your baby’s first dental appointment after the eruption of the first tooth and by his or her first birthday.

Both the AAP and the AAPD recommend that all children see a pediatric dentist and establish a “dental home” by age one. A pediatric dentist will make sure all teeth are developing normally and that there are no dental problems. He or she will also give you further advice on proper hygiene. If you don’t have a pediatric dentist in your community, find a general dentist who is comfortable seeing young children.

Additional Information:

About Dr. DiMaggio: 

Dina DiMaggio, MD, FAAP, is a board certified pediatrician at Pediatric Associates of NYC and at NYU Langone Medical Center. She is the co-author of The Pediatrician’s Guide to Feeding Babies and Toddlers, a comprehensive manual written by a team of medical, nutrition, and culinary experts. Follow her on Instagram @Pediatriciansguide.

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About Dr. Cernigliaro:

Julie Cernigliaro, DMD, is a board certified pediatric dentist and the Associate Director of the Pediatric Dental Residency Program at Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. She holds a faculty position at NYU College of Dentistry and currently works in private practice at Happy Smile Pediatric Dentistry, PC in NYC.

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The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Your baby’s first tooth and those adorable toothy grins are milestones you’ll look for and treasure. If you’re wondering when they will appear, it’s good to know that the timing of teething varies widely from baby to baby. Read on to discover when your baby may start teething, the signs and symptoms of teething, how long teething typically lasts, and much more.

When Does Teething Start?

Teething often starts when babies are between 6 and 12 months old, though in some cases those first teeth may appear earlier or even a little later. In some very rare cases newborns may be born with a tooth already erupted, or have a tooth come through in the first few weeks.

Look out for signs of teething, such as tender gums, drooling, or gnawing on a fist or finger, which may indicate that you’ll soon be seeing a tooth emerge.

What if Teething Starts Later Than You Expect?

It’s helpful to remember that growing teeth is not a competitive sport, and that your baby’s teeth will arrive when they are ready. So, don’t be concerned if your friends’ children get teeth before your baby does.

The age range can be quite broad when it comes to teething. Though it’s likely that teething may begin between 6 and 12 months, the first tooth may appear as early as 3 or 4 months or as late as 14 months. Some babies might even be slightly outside of this range on either side. Genetics may play a role in the timing.

Of course, if you’re concerned about your baby’s teeth (or lack thereof) or have any questions about dental care, speak to her healthcare provider or dentist.

Which Teeth Come in First?

Each baby is different, but typically your baby’s two bottom front teeth will come in first, followed by the two top front teeth. We cover when baby teeth typically come in in more detail in our teething timeline below.

How Long Does Teething Last?

The duration of the teething process can vary. At some point between your child’s second and third birthdays, however, your little one will have a full set of 20 primary teeth. This means the total teething period lasts about two years.

If your little one has teething discomfort, know that this will probably come and go. Teething symptoms are typically experienced in the days before a tooth erupts; then the soreness subsides until a new tooth starts to come in.

How Many Baby Teeth Will Appear in Total?

Your little one’s first set of teeth are known as primary or baby teeth. By the time she’s 2 and a half to 3 years old she will have a full set of 20 baby teeth.

When your child is around 6 or 7 years old, the baby teeth will start falling out to make way for her permanent teeth, sometimes called secondary teeth. It takes many years for all 32 secondary teeth to come in, so for a while there your child will have a mix of primary and secondary teeth.

Signs and Symptoms of Teething

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Sometimes a tooth may appear without any symptoms at all while in other cases symptoms of teething could start about three to four days before the tooth itself is visible.

As the baby teeth grow and break through the gums, teething symptoms can include:

• Irritability. Your little one might seem a little fussier and may cry more than usual.

• Disturbed sleep. Teething pain or discomfort may cause your baby to wake up during the night.

• More drooling. It’s common for a teething baby to drool a lot when teething. Experts say the extra saliva can help soothe the tender gums.

• Chewing on things. When your baby is teething, she may gnaw on toys, a teething ring, or even her own fingers to help relieve the pressure she feels on her gums. Chewing on something firm helps massage the gums and helps ease any discomfort as the tooth tries to erupt.

• Sore, swollen gums. The spot where a tooth is coming through may be tender, red, and swollen.

• Low-grade temperature. During teething, your little one’s temperature may be slightly elevated, but teething is unlikely to cause a fever higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit. If your baby seems very uncomfortable or has a temperature of at least 101 degrees (or at least 100.4 degrees for a baby under 3 months) , contact your little one’s healthcare provider, who can determine what’s causing the fever.

Teething Timeline

When each tooth comes in and in what order varies from child to child, but here’s a general idea of the teething timeline:

Top Teeth

• Central incisors (the front teeth): 8 to 12 months

• Lateral incisors (the teeth on either side of the front teeth): 9 to 13 months

• Canines, or cuspids (the sharp, pointy teeth on either side of the lateral incisors): 16 to 22 months

• First molars (the back teeth used to grind food): 13 to 19 months

• Second molars (the back teeth that fill in the last gaps): 25 to 33 months

Bottom Teeth

• Central incisors (the front teeth): 6 to 10 months

• Lateral incisors (the teeth on either side of the front teeth): 10 to 16 months

• Canines, or cuspids (the sharp, pointy teeth on either side of the lateral incisors): 17 to 23 months

• First molars (the back teeth used to grind food): 14 to 18 months

• Second molars (the back teeth that fill in the last gaps): 23 to 31 months

How to Soothe Your Teething Baby

Teething can be uncomfortable for some babies, and as there’s no magic technique that works for every child, you may have to experiment to find something that helps your little one feel better. Among the many ways to soothe your teething baby are these two quick ideas:

• Give a teething ring. Chewing on one of these rings lets your teething baby massage her own gums. Some types can be cooled in the fridge to give extra relief, but don’t put a teething ring in the freezer—this can make it too hard and cold for your little one’s sensitive gums. To keep your little one safe, never tie a teething ring to a string that’s looped around your baby’s neck or clipped to her top.

• Massage your baby’s gums. Using a clean finger, gently massage your baby’s sore gums.

How to Care for Your Baby’s New Teeth

It’s important to start caring for your baby’s teeth (or tooth) as soon as the first one pokes through. Those baby teeth have to last several years before they’re replaced with adult teeth, and establishing good dental hygiene habits early on will help set your little one up for healthy teeth and gums throughout her life.

Taking steps to prevent cavities and tooth decay in the baby teeth is just as important as it is with adult teeth, because decay in these teeth can affect the permanent teeth that follow and cause other dental problems like pain and infections.

Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth

Regular brushing is an important part of dental care. The key thing at this stage is to gently clean baby teeth twice a day and to get your little one used to the brushing routine.

Here are some guidelines for brushing your baby’s teeth, as well as some tips on teaching your older child how to get the job done, with your help:

• Brush at least twice a day, always brushing after your child has had anything sugary as well as after the last meal or drink of the day

• Put a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste on a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for your baby’s age. Carefully brush each tooth, making sure to reach all the surfaces, including the sides and the inside surface. Once your child is about 2 years old you can start using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. You’ll need to teach him how to rinse and spit, rather than swallowing the toothpaste.

• The direction of the brush stroke doesn’t really matter. The key is to clean each tooth from all angles, making sure you reach the back teeth as well

• For now you’ll need to brush your baby’s teeth. As he reaches the toddler and preschooler stage, help him begin brush his own teeth, under your close supervision. You’ll need to lend a hand until he’s 7 or 8 years old to ensure those teeth get a thorough clean. Here are some ideas for how to make brushing more fun for both of you.

Diet

Your little one’s diet is a big part of dental health. Avoid giving your child sugary drinks like fruit juice and sodas, or sticky sweet snacks like gum, toffee, and sticky caramel. Also, don’t let your baby fall asleep with a bottle or sippy cup of milk, formula, juice, or any other sweet drink, as this can cause the sugary liquid to pool in his mouth and lead to tooth decay.

For more on caring for your baby’s teeth, check out our article on dental care for children.

Dental Checkups

Getting professional care from a dentist is crucial for the healthy development of your child’s teeth, mouth, and gums. Usually, the first dentist visit should take place within about six months of the first tooth poking through or by the time your child is 12 months old, whichever comes first.

Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, you can make an appointment at any time. Your baby’s healthcare provider will also check your baby’s teeth and gums at his regular well-child checkups.

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When to See Your Baby’s Healthcare Provider

If your little one is showing symptoms like fever, irritability, or diarrhea, or any other signs of childhood illness, and you’re not sure whether it’s related to teething or something else, it’s safest to call your healthcare provider so an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan can be made.

You should also contact your baby’s healthcare provider if you’re concerned about how much discomfort your baby is in as a result of teething. The provider may recommend some form of pain relief while also making sure that nothing else is wrong to cause the elevated levels of pain or discomfort. Do not use teething gels to numb the gums, as these are dangerous.

You’ll also want to consult your baby’s healthcare provider or dentist if your baby has a tooth problem or injury, such as a broken or chipped tooth.

Interesting Facts About Baby Teeth

Want to know more about teething and those white-as-can-be baby teeth? Here are some fun facts about your little one’s teeth:

• On average, about four teeth will poke through every six months during the teething process

• Girls’ teeth may erupt a little sooner than boys’ teeth

• The bottom teeth tend to erupt before the same type of tooth on the top

• Teeth usually erupt in symmetrical pairs; in other words, one tooth on the right side of the jaw and the same type of tooth on the left side of the jaw will poke through at roughly the same time

• Your child’s primary teeth are smaller and whiter than the permanent teeth that will replace them in a few years’ time

• From around the age of 4, your child’s face and jaw will begin to grow and change shape, and this will create gaps in his smile as the baby teeth won’t catch up in size. This is completely normal—it’s the mouth’s way of making space for the bigger adult teeth that will follow.

• Your baby’s secondary teeth will be coming in when he is about 7 or 8 years old. Because it will take a little while before your child has a full set of adult teeth, for several years your child will have a mix of baby and adult teeth.

• Your baby has 20 primary teeth but will have many more secondary teeth. By the time your child is in his teens or early 20s, he’ll have between 28 and 32 adult teeth.

FAQs at a Glance

• How do you know if your baby is teething?

  Signs that your baby is teething can include:

  • Being cranky or crying a lot
  • Disrupted sleep
  • Drooling more than usual
  • Chewing or gnawing on an object
  • Tender, red gums where the tooth is coming through.
• How do you soothe a teething baby?

  Here’s how to soothe your teething baby:

  • Give your baby a teething ring to chew on
  • If your little one’s already eating solids, give some crunchy or textured finger foods like a teething biscuit or give cold food like applesauce or yogurt
  • Massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger
  • Chill a clean cloth in the fridge and give it to your baby to chew on.
• Can your 3-month-old be teething?

  Most babies cut their first tooth sometime between 6 and 12 months old, but some do start teething earlier, so it may be possible that your baby is teething at 3 months old.

  Check for symptoms of teething like fussiness, excessive drooling, or sore, red gums. If you aren’t sure whether your baby is teething or not, ask your child’s healthcare provider for personalized advice.

• How early do infants start teething?

  The range is quite broad, but most babies start teething sometime between 6 and 12 months of age. It’s possible that your baby may start teething a little earlier or later than this range.

• Can 8-week-old babies start teething?

  It may be possible to start teething at 8 weeks, but typically teething starts sometime between 6 and 12 months.

• What do babies’ gums look like when teething?

  The gums may look red and swollen and may be tender to the touch. Eventually, you may also see a tooth poking through the gumline.

• When do you start brushing baby teeth?

  Start brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as the first one pokes through. Twice a day, use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a tiny smear of toothpaste to gently clean the entire surface of the tooth.

The Big Picture

Teething can sometimes be a challenging time for your baby and you. Try to keep in mind how important those teeth are, helping your child chew and bite into the nutritious foods that are fueling his growth and development.

If you’re still waiting for that first tooth, know that it will be here soon enough, and more will be on the way. Each new tooth that emerges will make that smile even more adorable than it was before.

Take good care of your baby’s tiny teeth and before you know it the gaps in your little one’s smile will be filled in with some of the cutest, whitest teeth you’ve ever seen!

How we wrote this article

The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.

Late teething: Is It a Problem?

When babies are born, they already have most of their teeth under their gums. The first tooth usually begins to erupt by the age of six months, although the exact age can vary from one baby to another. The first two teeth to come in are usually in the bottom middle, followed by the four in the upper middle. Most children have a complete set of 20 baby teeth by the time they turn 3.

Some children do not get their teeth at the same time as their peers. This can be caused by several factors. If a child does not have any teeth by the age of 18 months, he or she should be taken to a pediatric dentist for an evaluation.

Reasons for Late Teething in Babies

Some children are just late bloomers, but if that isn’t the case, here are a few other reasons for late teething in babies-

1. Hereditary Factors

If delayed teething runs in the family, then it should come as no surprise that your child follows suit as well. Both your side of the family as well as your spouses can be responsible, for a delay in the appearance of your child’s first tooth. Ask your parents or relatives if you or they had the same issue and if yes, then this could be one of the reasons why your child has a delay in teething.

2. Poor Nutrition

If your baby is not getting enough breast milk, or if the baby formula is not good enough to provide all the nutrients that your baby needs, then it will lead to delayed teething. Breast milk contains calcium, and your baby needs this for the growth and development of his teeth and bones. Baby formula usually has nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, and D, which helps with growth, repair, immunity, and overall development of your child. Calcium is especially important for strong and healthy teeth. But if the baby formula you use does not have all of these nutrients or if your baby is not consuming enough, then it could cause a delayed teeth eruption in infants.

3. Hypothyroidism and Teething

Hypothyroidism is a condition when the thyroid glands don’t produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones for the body to function normally. It usually affects the heart rate, metabolism, and body temperature. If your baby has an underactive thyroid, then it is most likely that he has a delay in hitting several milestones like walking, teething, and even talking.

Complications of Late Teething

• A major complication of delayed teething is that the permanent teeth might develop in a crooked way if the baby teeth develop late.
• Baby teeth are also required for your baby to be able to chew his food properly. The inability to chew solid foods is another complication of delayed teething.
• Sometimes, the permanent set of teeth appears along with the delayed baby teeth, causing two rows of teeth.
• Delayed teething can cause cavities or tooth decay to appear in your child.

When to Consult a Doctor

Firstly, check with your parents and relatives to make sure that delayed teething does not run in the family. If it doesn’t, and if your baby is more than 15 months old, then you should consult a doctor. Check for other signs like weight gain (when your baby isn’t eating), delayed overall development, abnormal metabolism, and lethargy. A lot of people consider late teething a sign of intelligence, but this doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. Sometimes, children with a high IQ are early bloomers, while at other times, they’re late bloomers.

Your baby’s teeth coming in late can cause you to worry. Observe your child, and look out for any abnormal signs like hoarse crying, constipation, or an abnormal heart rate. Go through your family history and keep a note of relatives who started teething late. If your response to all of this is in the affirmative, then your child is probably showing signs of delayed teething. Consult your doctor if this is the case.

Resources:

ctkidsdentist.com

parenting.firstcry.ae

We love our patients and love to help them form healthy dental life that will last them a lifetime. Growing Smiles is a pediatric dentist in Anna, Richardson, Plano, Garland, Murphy we have Pediatric Services in Texas: Early Childhood Care, Preventive Care, General Treatments, Sedation Dentistry, Special Needs Dentistry, Emergency Service and Orthodontic (Braces & Invisalign) For more information call us to answer all of your questions so get an appointment today.

5 Step Survival Guide to Baby Teething

Fevers, sleepless nights, and fits…. Yep, these types of pain sound like teething! Well, don’t worry, we have some tips from our pediatric dentist to help you and your little one survive this trying time. Baby teething is uncomfortable, but there are ways to make it a little bit better.

What to Look For When Baby Starts Teething

First, you need to understand the signs, symptoms, and what to expect when sets of teeth begin to come in. Drooling and acute pain from baby teething may begin as early as 3-4 months, but teeth won’t come in until 6-8 months or later. Every baby is different, but generally, teeth appear in pairs, and it’s usually the front teeth. The bottom set usually appears first followed by the matching pair on top.

Be on the lookout for drooling, irritability, difficulty sleeping, grabbing ears, biting/chewing/sucking, and turning away food (typical baby behavior, right…not quite). Be careful not to blame teething for other symptoms such as diarrhea, runny nose, or high temperature. If you are noticing these symptoms, and they last longer than 24 hours you should contact your pediatrician.

What You Can Do to Ease The Pain (5 Steps)

1. Gum Massage
The teeth don’t simply erupt; they twist and shift their way into the gums, sounds pretty uncomfortable! To help ease this pain and relieve sore gums, use wet washcloths, gauze, or clean fingers to massage the gums for pain management. It helps the teeth break through the skin and will relieve some of the discomforts your baby is experiencing. The gums around the growing teeth may be swollen and painful as each tooth grows upwards.

2. Ice, Ice, Baby
Look for teething rings that you can chill or freeze. You can also wet a baby-sized washcloth and freeze it for your child to gnaw on. Frozen foods such as bananas, carrots, celery, and popsicles work as well. Celery actually has natural pain relieving properties, so frozen it serves double duty!

3. Catching ZZZ’s Regularly
Try to stay on a regular sleep or nap schedule. It’s hard for babies to sleep when teeth are breaking through. To keep their sleep schedule regular use pain relievers. Children 6 months and under can only take Infant Tylenol. However, children over the age of 6 months can take Children’s Motrin. This is a good option because teething pain is caused by inflammation, and Motrin relieves inflammation, which helps reduce pain significantly. Please be sure to follow all package dosing instructions.

4. Skin Protection
Babies tend to drool while teething, in order to prevent face rashes make sure you are protecting their chins using mild ointment before and during drooling spells. In addition, put bibs on your baby to catch the drool. The bib will help prevent drool soaking through their shirts, so you aren’t changing their outfit 6 times in one day!

5. Ease the Hunger Strike
When teeth are breaking through, sometimes it is so painful that your baby doesn’t want to eat. Try to give your baby something cold to bite on before mealtime. This will help relieve the pain and then allow the hunger to take over.

Teething will be a difficult time for your little one, and you as well. Try these tips for taking care of your baby’s teeth and hang in there while their little chompers grow! If there’s something we didn’t cover that you’d be interested in learning, contact us, and our knowledgeable dental staff will be more than happy to help!

Pediatric Dentists at Snodgrass & King in Middle Tennessee

If you are looking for a fun kids dentist, we have dental office locations in Franklin, Hermitage, Spring Hill, Murfreesboro, and Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. We take care of your child’s dental health from baby to wisdom teeth! Starting dental care from only a few months of age can prevent chronic pain, gum disease, cavities, and a whole host of dental ailments. Look out for Chomp! Your child may even see Chomp the friendly purple, alligator during their dental visit.

Baby Teething: Signs, Symptoms, Remedies, and FAQs

Is your baby teething? What do you do? What can you expect? How will you survive? Whether it’s your first time with a teething baby or you just want to “get it right this time”, in our post, A Complete Guide to Teething, we’ll help you better navigate the very natural teething process. We’ll also help in nurturing your child as you, the parent or parents, explore this milestone together with baby.

We also compiled some amazing Inspirational Quotes About Becoming A Mother For The First Time you may be interested in.

In this post, we’ll discuss:

Chapter 1: Teething Process and Common Milestones

Your baby is getting teeth! You may be wondering: How long does teething take? When will my baby’s teeth come in?

Baby’s primary teeth announce their joyous arrival over a period of about 18 – 24 months as they come through in stages. We’ll list these stages and time frames thoroughly, but note that every baby is a little different. Baby teeth may come in at different rates and sometimes teeth that normally come in after, emerge first. It’s all part of your baby’s unique and beautiful makeup that makes him/her so special.

6-10 Months

At 6-10 months you welcome baby’s first tooth as the lower front incisors (front teeth) come in. These are the two front teeth on the bottom that will give Baby the first experience of what it means to have teeth. Careful! Baby might get carried away with the new found freedom to chomp.

8-12 Months

At 8-12 months the upper front incisors emerge. Don’t be alarmed if these teeth erupt before the lowers.

9-13 Months

At 9-13 months, the upper lateral incisors join the party. “Lateral” means on the sides of, so these are the incisors that are on either side of the central incisors. Now Baby probably has four teeth across the top and two lower. But others aren’t far behind.

10 – 16 Months

At the 10-16 months, the lower lateral incisors erupt to balance the uppers and lowers.

13 -19 Months

At 13-19 months, Baby gets the first set of molars up top. These are the flat teeth that will help crush fibrous foods once the lowers join them. Baby may or may not have canines, the teeth right behind the two sets of incisors, at this time.

14 – 18 Months

Baby’s gets first lower molars.

16 – 22 Months

It’s time for Baby to get some upper teeth to help with piercing and tearing more substantial food. These are the two canines with their sharp fang-like points.

17 – 23 Months

2 Lower canines will soon follow the uppers.

23 – 31 Months

Baby adds some lower 2nd molars, the back most primary teeth.

25 – 33 Months

Upper 2nd molars emerge, and Baby’s set of primary teeth are complete!

All 20 primary teeth are very important for growth and development; they foster good nutrition by aiding in chewing, aid in speech development and don’t forget that beautiful picture perfect smile!

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Chapter 2: Signs Of Teething

When Baby starts teething, you’ll want to recognize the signs leading up to tooth eruption so that you can guide the process along, comfort baby and help reduce pain. Baby can’t tell you that something hurts, so you’ll be watching for the teething signs.

Excessive crying, especially at bed time

You were so happy when Baby first slept through the night. But now you may be going through it all over again — although you can expect it to be random nights and not consistent as it was just a couple months ago.

Chewing on hands, fingers, and toys… and everything

As the teeth try to emerge from one side, putting pressure on the opposite side can reduce the pressure and temporarily relieve pain. Baby will put anything in the mouth that can be accessed: bed rails, stair rails, furniture, remotes, shirts, toothbrushes, toilet paper, extension cords, pens, books. Anything that may be dangerous for Baby to chew on should be kept away. Small, sturdy devices like the remote control may seem okay at first sight aside from the icky germs, but they have batteries that could do serious harm if swallowed.

Fussiness

How would you act if you were in pain and no one understood?  You might be a little irritable too. Baby may get upset with people, surroundings or things during this time and begin crying with no apparent cause.

Raised, red gums

As the teeth push through, the gums may become red, and swollen.

White specks under gums

When the teeth are just below the surface, you’ll see little white specks beneath a thin layer of gum tissue.

Ear-tugging

Ear tugging can suggest an ear infection, but teething babies can also experience deferred pain or pain that resonates out from its source. This may be the case, particularly with back teeth because the nerves of the back teeth branch out to the middle ear.

A sore jaw can become a sore middle/inner ear for which tugging on the ear can provide some temporary relief. You don’t want to ignore an ear infection, so if Baby is tugging on an ear, has a fever and seems uncomfortable when lying down, you’ll want to have Baby’s doctor check him/her out. This could be an ear infection.

Drooling

Excess saliva may be produced during this time as the body trying to soothe the inflamed area. Streams of drool down the cheeks and chin can be a sign that baby is teething.

No outward signs at all

A select few, lucky parents claim that there were no signs at all. No teeth one day and then there they are — not all at once of course. This may happen with some or all of the teeth.

Resources:

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Chapter 3: Teething Symptoms

In the signs section, we talked about what you may notice about your child’s appearance and behavior. Now let’s discuss symptoms that baby is experiencing.

Warning: Baby may not be his/her usual, adorable and playful self at least not all of the time.

Pain

Erupting teeth sounds painful, and it is. The gums are very sore, and the sharp edges of teeth are pushing up out of the jaw and through the skin. The ears may feel stuffy, swollen and painful. The jaw aches and the gums feel swollen and sensitive.

Sore gums

Baby’s discomfort may not be at the level of pain, but Baby will almost undoubtedly have sore gums as the teeth push up through the skin.

Insomnia

Baby is so tired and wants to sleep, but the discomfort may prevent sleeping, so Baby stays awake. Apparently, not sleeping for extended periods of time would be damaging to Baby’s and your health, so we’ll discuss remedies in the next section.

Fever

Fevers are our bodies’ natural way of fighting illness. It is possible for your child to have a very low-grade fever when teething, but anything higher than that should be investigated by baby’s pediatrician to rule out any other illness.

Irritability

Because Baby may not be getting great sleep and is in pain, he/she feels irritable and may cry more often and get upset by little inconveniences more easily. But know it will pass. Baby will be adorable and cheerful most of the time

Resources:

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Chapter 4: Teething Remedies

While teething is a very natural process, some babies simply experience worse symptoms than others. As with all of Baby’s milestones, it’s helpful to have a caring adult around to support Baby through the process. Here are some remedies to help Baby through the process.

To Help Baby Sleep

Pain relievers

Give Children’s Motrin or Tylenol, make sure the dose is approved by the pediatrician. Read the label carefully and stop immediately and call the pediatrician if Baby has any reactions. These medicines should be reserved for bedtime because you can only have so many doses per day. If Baby wakes after 4-6 hours and appears to be in pain again, a 2^nd dose is usually okay, but not any sooner.

Cold wash cloth

Soak a clean washcloth in cold water, wring and let Baby chew on it. The cold will help numb the pain long enough for Baby to fall asleep.

Teething tablets

Teething tablets have been used in the past by many parents to help ease teething pain however their safety has been questioned recently by the FDA causing some brands (Hylands) to be recalled. It is not recommended for use at this time, and we urge parents to look into these products thoroughly before considering their use.

Read:
FDA confirms elevated levels of belladonna in certain homeopathic teething products

The FDA  has also warned the public regarding the use of Benzocaine, a local anesthetic that can be found in over-the-counter (OTC) products as Anbesol, Hurricaine, Orajel, Baby Orajel, and Orabase. Especially in children under 2 years old, there is a higher risk for a rare but serious—and sometimes fatal—condition called methemoglobinemia, a disorder in which the amount of oxygen carried through the bloodstream is reduced.

Read:  Benzocaine and Babies: Not a Good Mix

To Help Relieve Teething Pain During the Day

Silicone teethers

Teethers should be firm to add pressure to the gums but have a slight give to allow the gums and new teeth to subtly sink in.

Teething biscuits

Hard biscuits specifically made for teething can help baby cut teeth while eating a healthy snack.

Freezer pops

Puree and freeze fruit juice, pump and freeze breast milk or freeze chamomile tea into little handheld pops. You can buy molds that are shaped like a pacifier, so Baby can easily hold it. Remember that fruit juice is loaded with sugar and can damage baby’s teeth, so use juice sparingly.

Cold foods

Snacks like soothing cold yogurt and even ice cream (in small amounts).

Resources:

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Chapter 5: Teething Toys

Baby’s teething and you’re on a mission to reduce the pain and keep Baby cheerful and bright. What do you do? You buy more Baby toys, of course. Teething toys can be a life saver for Baby and Mommy during this time. When Baby has clean and appropriate toys to chew on, Baby is less likely to chew on other dirty and dangerous household objects like keys and cabinets.

As Baby gets teeth, he/she’ll want to explore different textures so let’s talk about some amazing options.

• Silicone bracelets – Since baby wears the bracelet, it never gets lost.
• Wooden teething rings with cloth handles – Baby learns to grip and hold cloth while chewing on soft wood and leaving hundreds of cute, little bite marks that you’re so happy are not on the coffee table instead.
• Teething necklaces with bunched cloth – It’s easy for baby to twist the necklace around to find the perfect spot to gnaw.
• Teething necklaces with wooden rings – Wood is often one of Baby’s favorite substances to gnaw on. And if the wood becomes unsatisfying, Baby can just chew on the cloth necklace itself.
• Squeeze toys – Baby will love to chew and make squeaky sounds with baby-safe squeeze toys. But don’t let Baby confuse his/her toys with puppy’s.
• Amber necklaces – Necklaces made from real amber beads give Baby yet another texture to explore. Some people claim these are extremely effective, but always be cautious with putting something around Baby’s neck that could potentially be a strangulation hazard. Also be sure each bead is individually wrapped so there is no way one can break off and potentially be a choking hazard as well.

Resources:

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Chapter 6: Caring For Baby Teeth

Congrats, Proud Parent! Baby now has teeth, so what do you do? Let’s discuss how to care for Baby teeth, but first, we’ll share some statistics you need to know.

According to the CDC:

• More than 40 percent of children have caries by the time they reach kindergarten.
• Kids who get cavities in their primary teeth are more likely to get cavities in their permanent teeth.
• 20% of children 6-8 have cavities that go untreated.

Think that the primary teeth aren’t really that important since your child loses them anyway? You may be surprised to find that if a child loses a primary tooth too early, then the permanent tooth that replaces it will often come in maligned, which means that your child is more likely to need braces. Not to mention, primary teeth with decay can lead to pain, fevers, abscess, and even life-threatening infections if left untreated.

A child who learns early to care for teeth is more likely to have better overall health into adulthood with a reduced risk of diabetes, stroke, cancer, Alzheimer’s, kidney problems, infertility… and the list goes on.

Now, let’s talk about protecting those teeth.

Ages 0-1

Even before the teeth arrive, Baby will still have bacteria in the mouth that multiplies. These bacteria are usually transmitted from family members, especially mom, so it is of the utmost importance for mom to also have a healthy oral environment. As the teeth begin to emerge, these bacteria will begin their colonization and attack of those new teeth. Always wipe the gums with a clean, moist washcloth or folded gauze after each feeding.

Ages 1-2

By age 1, some of Baby’s teeth have fully emerged. It’s time to switch to a soft baby brush and no more than a rice-grain size speck of fluoride toothpaste. Brush teeth twice a day. Baby should not be left to brush his/her own teeth; they need to be closely supervised to assure that he/she isn’t swallowing too much toothpaste.

Ages 3+

At this point, your child likely wants to be cleaning his/her own teeth independently. You can encourage this positive behavior by having them brush and you finish the process after. Children do not have the manual dexterity to effectively brush all surfaces of their teeth until about age 8-9. This is a task that should be shared with parents to ensure proper oral hygiene is being maintained.

A pea size amount of toothpaste is all they need at this stage. Brushing should be firm but gentle with a soft-bristle brush. Flossing should begin as soon as you cannot see space between each tooth.

Most importantly, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend your child find a Dental Home within 6 months of their first tooth emerging and no later than age 1. This way, a Pediatric Dentist can give you individualized anticipatory guidance based on your child’s specific needs. The Pediatric Dentist can be your go-to person for any questions regarding oral care, products, growth, and development questions as well as a contact point for any dental trauma that your child may encounter.

Resources:

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Chapter 7: Common Questions and Answers

My baby boy is only 2 months old. Can he really be teething?

Yes. Each baby is unique and perfectly designed. While most babies begin teething at around 6 months, many babies start teething well before or after the normal teething age. Baby’s teeth will come through on his/her own timeline… not ours.

When should Baby first go to the dentist?

The American Dental Association recommends that Baby visits the dentist within 6 months of the first tooth arriving. This will typically mean that Baby sees the dentist before the 1^st birthday, but don’t wait too long if Baby is an early teether.

What’s the difference between a regular (general) dentist and pediatric dentist?

A general dentist is trained to handle patients of all ages. A pediatric dentist has had 2-3 years of additional training to specialize in children’s dental needs. Because of this, techniques, facilities, and staff will all be designed around helping children to feel calm and comfortable when they see the dentist.

Seeing a pediatric dentist can be a fun and joyful experience at a pediatric dentist while children who visit a general dentist may not have the same experience, not because the people aren’t friendly and professional, but only because everything is not centered around children’s needs. Even if you love your dentist, it may be better for Baby to see a pediatric dentist.

I feel like I’m getting conflicting information about dental care, will a pediatric dentist answer my questions?

Absolutely! That’s what we’re here for. Ask away. We love to answer questions, and we are dedicated to the health of our patients.  We are overjoyed to help dispel myths and provide clarity to children’s dental care. It’s what we love to do.

Resources:

Baby Tooth Eruption Stages | Fox Kids Dentistry

It takes a baby a few years to go from that adorable gummy smile to a mouth full of teeth. While the first tooth is a milestone and so cute to see, as a parent, you likely want to know when can you expect it to arrive and the others that follow.

Use the links below to jump to sections in this blog post.

1. When Do Babies Start Teething?
2. Order of Eruption
3. Unique Situations and Potential Impacts on Tooth Development
5. How Can I Tell If Something Is Wrong With My Baby’s Teeth?
6. When to Contact Our Portland Pediatric Dentist?

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Baby teeth, also referred to as milk teeth, deciduous teeth or primary teeth, are temporary placeholders for your baby’s permanent set of teeth to come in. They also play a significant role in your child’s development.

Baby teeth eruption is a natural part of your baby’s normal development, where your baby’s teeth enter their mouth and become noticeable. By the time your baby turns three years old, they should have 20 teeth in their mouth. Even so, most of their baby (primary) teeth will appear during their first two years of life. To make room for their permanent teeth, your child will start losing their baby teeth around the age of six.

Usually, babies are born with tooth “buds” underneath their gums, embedded in the bone below. These baby tooth buds are areas where their 20 teeth will gradually erupt and develop. But there are some instances where the process of tooth eruption doesn’t follow the text-book pattern of normal eruption. There is a possibility your baby’s teeth won’t erupt in the expected order, or perhaps there’s a substantial delay.

Each baby is different in the teeth development process, though, so don’t be alarmed if your child’s tooth eruption follows a slightly different pattern. Some may begin teething as early as four to seven months. Others may be around nine months before they get their first teeth, or even not until they’re a year old. In some cases, a baby might even be born with a couple of teeth already! Genetics can play a huge role. If you or your partner developed your primary teeth early, there’s a good chance your child will, too.

Once you understand what to look for, you can contact our Fox Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics pediatric dentist if you have any concerns.

Order of Eruption and What Each Set of Teeth Is Designed to Help Babies Do

Below is the typical baby teeth order of appearance, when you can expect to see the primary teeth come in, and what their job is:

Central Incisor

Function: The central incisors are thin and flat. Their function is to slice through the food you eat, and they support the appearance and shape of your lips. They also help you pronounce certain sounds such as “th” and “t.” They help guide the jaw into its proper position when you close your mouth as well. You have both upper and lower central incisors.

Upper

When the tooth comes in: eight to 12 months old

When the tooth falls out: six to seven years old

Lower

When the tooth comes in: six to 10 months old

When the tooth falls out: six to seven years old

Lateral Incisor

Function: These are the two teeth that sit next to the left and right sides of your central incisors. They’re also referred to as being away from the center of your jaw or being in the distal position. The primary function of the incisors is cutting and tearing into food, although the aesthetic appearance of these teeth are scrutinized immensely since they’re visible while eating, smiling and talking. You have both upper and lower lateral incisors, too.

Upper

When the tooth comes in: nine to 13 months old

When the tooth falls out: seven to eight years old

Lower

When the tooth comes in: 10 to 16 months old

When the tooth falls out: seven to eight years old

Canine (Cuspid)

Function: The canines are located at the “corners” of your dental arches. They have a pointed, sharp biting surface, so they can perform their function of gripping and tearing food.

Upper

When the tooth comes in: 16 to 22 months old

When the tooth falls out: 10 to 12 years old

Lower

When the tooth comes in: 17 to 23 months old

When the tooth falls out: nine to 12 years old

Molars

Function: Your molars are your largest teeth in your mouth. Their biting surfaces are flat, and their function is to crush, chew and grind food. You have eight molars.

First Molar

Upper

When the tooth comes in: 13 to 19 months old

When the tooth falls out: nine to 11 years old

Lower

When the tooth comes in: 14 to 18 months old

When the tooth falls out: nine to 11 years old

Second Molar

Upper

When the tooth comes in: 25 to 33 months old

When the tooth falls out: 10 to 12 years old

Lower

When the tooth comes in: 23 to 31 months old

When the tooth falls out: 10 to 12 years old

Your child’s permanent teeth should start coming around the age of six years old.

In some kids, the first to emerge are the first permanent molars, and in others, it’s the incisors. Most of the 28 permanent teeth should be in and in place by the age of 13. By the age of 17 and 21 years old, one to four third molars, or wisdom teeth may emerge, bringing the total permanent teeth number to 32.

Based on this information, here are some answers to other common questions parents will ask us about their child’s teeth:

1. Which Baby Teeth Come First?

Typically, the first baby teeth start breaking through the gums around the age of six months old. The two bottom central incisors are usually the first two teeth to come in.

2. Are My Baby’s Teeth Late?

New parents eagerly wait for their baby’s first tiny white buds to start showing, which is a signal their first baby teeth are about to come in. Therefore, when they don’t show up, parents begin to worry something is wrong. For most babies with no teeth, this delay isn’t usually something to be concerned about. However, there could be an underlying cause too in some babies.

So, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), if your child hasn’t popped their first tooth by the time they reach 18 months old, you should take them to the pediatric dentist. The normal range for the first tooth to appear is between four to 15 months old. Afterward, the other teeth begin erupting in a regular pattern.

3. When Do Babies Start Teething?

Most babies have their first tooth or teeth erupt by the time they’re four to six months old. However, some children’s teeth show up earlier or later.

4. When Can My Baby Eat Solid Food?

Most babies are ready to start eating solid foods along with their formula-feeding or breastfeeding by the ages of four to six months old.

Unique Situations and Potential Impacts on Tooth Development

By the time your child turns three years old, they should have a complete set of 20 baby teeth, giving them a brilliant grin. Going from toothless to a full grin takes time. And, many parents have a lot of questions when it comes to their child’s baby teeth.

However, there are some unique situations that can affect the exact timing of when your baby’s teeth begin to erupt as well as when and how the permanent teeth come in. Here’s a look at some of those situations:

1. What If My Baby Is Born Early?

On average, a baby usually gets their first tooth at around six months, but all babies are different. Children that are born prematurely should be calculated at the corrected age. For instance, if your child was born a month premature, their teeth may begin erupting at seven months instead of six.

Teething issues occur the most in premature babies, along with those that don’t have sufficient healthcare access. You should contact one of our pediatric dentists if you notice your baby hasn’t had any tooth eruptions by the time they’re 18 months old. However, it’s recommended that babies start seeing a pediatric dentist by their first birthday.

While there should not be too many significant problems with a later order of appearance, you should consult our pediatric dentist if your baby hasn’t had any teeth erupt by their first birthday. You shouldn’t be too concerned unless you have a family history of teeth missing or your child has another underlying health condition.

2. What Happens When Teeth Come in out of Order?

Because all babies have different timetables, don’t be too concerned if your baby’s teeth erupt at a different time than most babies. Some teeth can take a little longer to erupt, while other times, the teeth will erupt earlier than normal ― even as early as four months old.

Your baby’s teeth may also erupt in a different pattern than what’s considered the normal pattern. For instance, your child’s front upper teeth may erupt first. When this occurs, there’s no need to worry. It doesn’t matter the exact order the teeth come in as long as your child has a gleaming set of 20 teeth by about their third birthday.

Now, there can be potential complications when teeth erupt out of order. All potential complications should be addressed right away to avoid long-term effects. For instance, if permanent teeth come in at an abnormal position, it can affect the spacing of all the permanent teeth.

3. What Happens If I See Crowding in My Baby’s Teeth?

Crowding is when there’s a lack of space for the teeth to normally fit into the jaw. The teeth might be displaced or rotated. Crowding can be due to late or early loss of baby teeth, a genetic imbalance between tooth size and jaw, or improper tooth eruption. Crowded baby teeth will often result in crowded permanent teeth, so spacing or crowding of your child’s teeth may be a good predictor as to what things will look like as they grow older.

You should have crowding corrected since it can:

• Increase the risk of baby tooth decay
• Make it harder to clean the teeth surfaces properly
• Increase the risk of gum disease

4. What Happens If I See a Blockage of My Baby’s Teeth?

Sometimes, if baby teeth erupt out of order, it can later block some permanent teeth from coming in because the baby teeth haven’t fallen out yet. Often the permanent tooth will come in anyway. This poses a higher risk of cavities developing since the teeth are then harder to clean. It’s also possible for the surrounding baby teeth to come out prematurely in this circumstance, which can affect the growth and development of the jaw and other facial bones.

5. What Happens If My Baby Has Impacted Teeth?

Impacted baby teeth are very rare. Impactions are more likely to occur with permanent teeth. When there’s a lack of space, some of the permanent teeth might not come through because they’re totally blocked. When there’s an occurrence of impacted teeth, damage can occur to surrounding bone and gum tissues as well as to the teeth’s roots.

If you have any concerns about any complications, consult with your child’s pediatric dentist.

6. What Happens If My Child Has Tooth Decay?

Another problem is tooth decay, and primary teeth are, unfortunately, at a higher risk for it. When there’s decay, it can lead to other complications like below and warrant an examination and potential treatment by our pediatric dentist:

• Early tooth loss: When there’s early baby tooth loss, whether it’s one tooth or a couple, it can leave space that isn’t ready to be filled yet. It’s essential to consult with a pediatric dentist to see if treatment is needed to prevent future orthodontic challenges later on in your child’s life.
• Infections: Infected teeth due to tooth decay can cause poor eating habits, crooked teeth, speech problems and damaged adult teeth.
• Cellulitis: This is inflammation that spread to the mouth’s surrounding soft tissues. It’s a dental emergency because if left untreated, can lead to significant infection. Your child will likely experience redness, pain and substantial swelling. Our dentist will need to prescribe antibiotics and if this condition affects your child’s teeth, and extraction may be needed.
• Gingivitis (gum disease): Gum disease typically causes the gum tissue to turn red, swell and bleed easily. Gum disease is both treatable and preventable with regular good oral hygiene and professional dental care.
• Yellow or brown spots on teeth: White spots seen on baby teeth are actually early tooth decay signs. They are caused by enamel mineral loss. If they are left untreated, they can turn brown or yellow and require more extensive dental treatment.
• Cavities: Tooth decay in toddlers can cause early childhood caries.
• Poor self-esteem: Having a mouth full of cavities or misaligned teeth can lead to poor self-esteem. This is also why you shouldn’t hesitate to bring your child to the dentist.

How Can I Tell If Something Is Wrong With My Baby’s Teeth?

While variations are completely normal, preventing early space loss and disease is important. Because the primary teeth are smaller than adult teeth (permanent teeth), they should leave plenty of space between them, allowing for room for future teeth. If you’re worried about your child’s teeth growing in too close together, have a pediatric dentist take a look.

When to Contact Our Portland Pediatric Dentist

You should schedule your child’s first dental appointment once their first tooth erupts and subsequently if other problems show up. A pediatric dentist is best since they have additional years of training, making them experts on baby teeth, and they have a lots of experience dealing with pediatric dental problems.

Again, there’s no need to panic if your baby’s teeth grow in out of order. There may be several reasons for the delay, but generally, most, if not all, baby teeth will be in place in due time. Unless you notice complications, please be patient.

Also, even though your baby’s milk teeth will be replaced by permanent teeth eventually, this doesn’t mean you should ignore your child’s good dental hygiene with their baby teeth. Healthy development and proper oral hygiene will set your baby up for proper, oral health in the future. Contact Fox Kids in Portland today at 503-223-5039 to set up your baby’s first appointment or to address any concerns you have. We can’t wait to meet you and your little one!

Summary

Article Name

Baby Teeth – Order of Appearance

Description

It takes a baby a few years to go from that adorable gummy smile to a mouth full of teeth. While the first tooth is a milestone and so cute to see, as a parent, you likely want to know when you can expect it to arrive, and the others that follow.

Author

Dr. Dana Fox

Publisher Name

Fox Kids Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Publisher Logo

90,000 What parents need to know about teething in children

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What parents need to know about teething in children

29.05.2017

All parents are eagerly awaiting when their baby’s teeth begin to erupt, which will be evidence of his transition to a new stage in life. However, this period is often very difficult and alarming. The baby is tormented by pain and vomiting, diarrhea, runny nose and increased body t. But there are times when teeth erupt practically without the above symptoms.

The reason for the rise in body temperature is the reaction of the body to the release of active substances in the gums during the eruption of the tooth, due to which inflammation occurs.

Temperature control

Experts say that during the period of teething in children, it is necessary to control the rise in temperature. At the same time, they assure that an increase in temperature above 38 degrees indicates an infection that has settled in the baby’s body, which means that the help of a doctor is required who can make the right appointments.The rise in temperature to 37-37.5 degrees can be caused precisely by teething, but even at such a temperature, the baby is often capricious: he eats badly, cries, cannot fall asleep.
It is important to know what methods can be used to relieve a child of agonizing symptoms.

When it is possible and necessary to bring down the temperature

If a child’s teeth began to erupt at 3 months and the process is accompanied by an increase in temperature, you should know that you can knock it down only after overcoming the threshold of 38 degrees.This is important so that the child’s body learns to cope with such a problem on its own.

The only case when it is allowed to bring down even a low temperature is an increase in temperature, accompanied by convulsions. Even if this time there are no seizures, but they were once after a rise in body temperature, it is better to bring it down. It is important to remember that it will first decrease by literally a few degrees. In order for it to bounce back, you will have to wait.

Ways to lower the temperature at home

• Rubdowns can be done at intervals of 2 hours.A soft cloth moistened with water at room temperature is used to wipe the hands, knees, armpits, groin area. It is important to avoid hypothermia!
• Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended to reduce fever. This will relieve intoxication and protect the child from dehydration.

The main thing that the parents of a child whose teeth are teething will most need is patience.

If your baby has dental problems, the “Dentistry Center” will come to the rescue. Experienced children’s dentists work here, who will find an approach to any fidget, and in a playful way, they will treat children with teeth using the most modern methods.

The doctors of our clinic work with visitors of all ages.

Teething of milk teeth in children

Teething of milk teeth in children

The appearance of baby teeth in a baby is a rather difficult process for both children and their parents. As a rule, it is accompanied by reddened and swollen gums, lack of appetite, whims, crying, and often increased body temperature. Many parents will find it useful to know about how a milk tooth is arranged, what is the timing of teething in children, what parents should do during this difficult period.

Terms of teething

From 4 to 7 months, you can see the first teeth pushing through the gum. These are the lower anterior teeth called the mandibular frontal incisors. After 4-8 weeks, the upper four incisors, frontal and lateral, appear. About a month later, two lower lateral incisors erupt. The lateral chewing teeth begin to appear next. First the most back, then the penultimate. And finally, by the second birthday, the fangs should already erupt.Most children by this age have a full set of 20 teeth. These are quite general rules, but if your baby has a significant delay in teething – retention, contact pediatric dentistry for advice. This is most common in the canines, but it can also affect the incisors and molars. The norm is a delay in eruption of 1, 2 months.

What is accompanied by the eruption of deciduous teeth?

From the moment the baby starts teething, you may notice his bad mood, increased salivation and a desire to chew on something.For some children, this process is painless. Others have short periods of irritability, soreness, and disturbed sleep and eating patterns. Teething can be very uncomfortable for the baby and if he seems too agitated, contact your pediatrician and pediatric dentist.

Although weak, swollen gums through which teeth are teething can cause a mild fever in a child, teething usually does not cause a significant fever or an upset stomach (diarrhea).If these symptoms occur, it is most likely caused by something else, and you urgently need to consult a pediatrician.

Teething relief:

• Wipe your baby’s face regularly with a special towel to remove saliva and prevent skin irritation.
• Place a clean, flat cloth under the baby’s head to absorb any saliva that drips. When the napkin is wet, you don’t have to rewrite the sheet.
• Give your child something to chew on. Make sure it is a large enough object so that it will not be swallowed or chewed into small pieces by the child. Special teething rings sold in pharmacies are also effective. Do not buy rings with liquid inside – they will burst. If you are using rings, do not freeze them in the freezer until they are stone-like to avoid damaging weak gums.
• Never tie a teething ring around a child’s neck so that it does not become entangled in the strap.Gently massage the baby’s gums with a clean finger. Tooth gel is often used to relieve teething pain in infants. Its application has a temporary effect.
• Never put aspirin or other tablets on your teeth, or rub alcohol-based solutions into your gums.
• When the child feels unwell, many parents give their child paracetamol. Remember that paracetamol is not recommended for children under 3 years old! Be sure to consult with a specialist!

It is extremely important to observe oral hygiene during the eruption of milk teeth, since due to the peculiarities of their structure, up to 80% of pathologies (pulpitis, periodontitis, periostitis) develop precisely during the formation of bite in children.

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90,000 How to relieve teething pain in a child

How to soothe teething pain

There are several options for helping your baby with teething to make this difficult period of his life more comfortable:

Chew toys

You can purchase special chewing rings of a wide variety of shapes and materials intended for a child during this period.These rings help to significantly reduce the discomfort in the child and help in the early appearance of the tooth.

You can also use chewing toys (made of special soft fabric) and various nipples for a baby bottle.

Proper nutrition

Cool water is the best option during teething, especially if the child drinks from a special baby sippy cup. Drinking a chilled drink will somewhat soothe irritated and sore gums in the same way as consuming cold fruit purees or drinking yoghurts.

Creative Distraction or Special Play

Try to distract your child with some creative actions from discomfort and pain in the mouth. Hug him, play with him, prepare a warm bath for him. If your baby is still breastfed, feed him.

Gum massage

If you lightly massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger, the pain will calm down a little. It can also help the tooth erupt.

Skin protection

You can use a baby cream to reduce chin irritation.It is also necessary to change the child’s bedding in a timely manner.

Dental gels

These drugs are available from many pharmaceutical companies. They may contain local anesthetic ingredients. Gels are temporary as they are easily washed off with saliva.

Children’s dental gels contain components with a high safety profile, some of which can be used as early as 5 months of age. It is recommended to follow the instructions for use and use only drugs that are registered for children of the appropriate age.

Medicines

If your child has severe pain or fever, you can give your child medicine for such cases, which may help reduce fever and pain.

Seek medical attention if the child has a high fever, an unusually uncomfortable or painful condition that suggests a problem that is more serious than teething symptoms.

Finally, do not forget that teeth naturally cut in all children, so do not take too close to your heart the unpleasant painful conditions of the child at this difficult time for him (and the family).

Milk teeth

The appearance of the baby’s first tooth is a great joy for parents. And at the same time, the beginning of new worries. Thoughtful mothers and fathers, and there are more and more of them now, have many questions in the field of such early pediatric dentistry. What to do if baby teeth are crumbling or temporary teeth fall out? What teeth are changing? But the essence of all these questions boils down to one thing: how to achieve the health and beauty of the teeth of your beloved child? Everything in order.

Why are the first teeth called milk teeth?

There are several opinions on this score. Doctors attribute the authorship of the term to Hippocrates, who believed that these teeth were formed from mother’s milk. Philologist N.N. Vashkevich argues that “the term is a tracing paper from the Latin lactose“ milk ”. But the tracing paper is false, it is a misunderstood Arab livakt – “for a while”, “temporary”. ”

One way or another, but the first teeth really actively “feed” on breast milk, since it is from it that the child assimilates the main building material of teeth and bones – calcium.And although milk teeth erupt, as a rule, at 6-7 months, their formation in the baby’s jaws occurs long before that.

It is worth noting that for the health and strength of the first teeth, it is mother’s milk (not cow’s milk) that is necessary, since the nutrients from it are absorbed by the baby’s body to the maximum. Therefore, the universal recipe “breastfeed” will help in this matter.

When do baby teeth appear?

The rudiments of milk teeth appear in the embryo at about 5-7 weeks of gestation.By the time the child is born, crowns of 10 temporary and 8 permanent teeth have already been formed in his jaws. The timing of the eruption of milk teeth is rather arbitrary. The average formula is as follows: the child’s age in months minus 6. That is, the first 2 teeth (usually the lower middle incisors) appear at 6-7 months, the next 2 (upper middle incisors) – at 8-9 months. Next, the upper lateral incisors usually come out, then the lower lateral incisors, then the anterior molars, canines, and posterior molars. Thus, by the age of 2-2.5 years, all 20 milk teeth should erupt in a child.These are ideal timing and perfect sequence, and deviations from them are quite common. The teeth can “climb” as early as 4 months, and can be delayed up to 8-9 months. In rare cases, a baby is born with teeth that have already erupted.

If your baby “does not meet the deadline”, do not be alarmed. This does not mean that the child is lagging behind in development. You should also not be proud of the early appearance of teeth – it does not indicate the superpowers of the child. Early or late appearance of teeth can be hereditary.In case of a strong deviation from the schedule – the appearance of teeth before 4 months or their absence after 9 months – just show the baby to the pediatric dentist. In general, the first examination by a pediatric dental specialist should be scheduled at least for the time when the child turns one year old. The doctor will see how the teething process is going, talk with you about the hygiene of the baby’s oral cavity. The kid will get acquainted with the environment of the office, with the doctor, will receive the first positive experience of visiting the dentist, because nothing unpleasant awaits him on this visit, and funny pictures on the walls of the clinic, toys, a chair in which you can ride with your mother – all this will surely be done on he’s a good impression.In the future, you should show your child to a pediatric dentist at least twice a year.

The baby is teething – how to help him?

The child’s profuse salivation will tell you that the first tooth is on its way. 1-2 months before the eruption of the first tooth, the baby’s saliva begins to flow so actively that it is already difficult to do without aprons and bibs.

All older relatives will probably tell you about the unpleasant side effects of teething. However, there are many misconceptions here.

The very first teeth, as a rule, come out painlessly. Most often it happens like this: while feeding the child from a spoon, the mother hears the sound of metal on the edge of the tooth – that is, she discovers an already accomplished event, without even noticing something unusual in the child’s behavior.

The appearance of canines and molars may be more difficult. The kid can be capricious, refuse to eat, sleep poorly, pull everything into his mouth. You should take care of sore gums – regularly treat them with special gels, invite your child to chew on a cooling ring (cold relieves pain well).

However, do not believe that an increase in temperature is associated with teething. Fever and catarrhal phenomena are caused by an infection that has been “caught” by the child’s body weakened by malnutrition and lack of sleep. That is why, during the period of teething of difficult teeth, it is better to keep the baby from communicating with strangers. Digestive disorders, an upset stomach of a child at the time of teething is associated with his desire to chew and suck everything he can reach, just to relieve discomfort in the gums.So pathogenic microbes get into his mouth. Try to keep the child surrounded by clean objects, wash his hands and toys more often. Regularly let your baby chew small pieces of solid food – dried bread, a bagel, a slice of apple, etc. This will help the eruption of those teeth that are already “on the way”, will improve the blood supply, and hence the nutrition of the gums, develop the chewing reflex, and help the formation of the speech apparatus.

When should you start brushing your child’s teeth?

Now children’s dentists are inclined to believe that systematic cleaning of the child’s oral cavity should be started … from the first days of his life.After feeding, you need to take a clean gauze or bandage, wrap it around your finger, moisten it with boiled water and run it over the gums of the newborn. This is how you can avoid such major troubles as, for example, candidiasis (thrush) of the oral cavity.

The first teeth can be cleaned with a cotton swab or fingertip. You should start using toothpaste and a brush from 12-14 months. Almost all children’s brushes are now made from soft artificial bristles, but still be careful, check the brush you like: what age it is designed for, whether it is soft enough.Give preference to products from well-known manufacturers. Toothpaste also differs in composition and taste depending on the age of the children to whom it is intended. The kid should be told to spit out the toothpaste, even though it is sweet. However, keep in mind for yourself: nothing bad will happen if a child first swallows a certain amount of paste: manufacturers know about this tendency of babies and make baby pastes safe for the body.

Of course, it is necessary to involve the child as much as possible in the process of dental care: to show how to use a brush correctly, to brush your teeth in the presence of the child, thereby demonstrating how important this procedure is.You can involve your baby in the process of choosing a paste and a brush, especially since the brush needs to be changed every 3 months. A little older child can be asked to choose brushes for the whole family. It is necessary to develop the child’s skill of regularly brushing teeth 2 times a day. More attention should be paid to brushing your teeth at night. And yet, letting go of the situation and leaving the child to himself in the matter of oral hygiene is possible only when the child turns 10 years old.

Diseases of milk teeth

The most common troubles are caries (including bottle caries), pulpitis, periodontitis.

You should be alerted to any changes in the color of the enamel, spots, dots (both dark and white) on the child’s teeth, redness or swelling of the gums. But the irregularities of the dentition at first can not be scared: when chewing solid food, the milk teeth will move a little and gradually take the right place.

The reasons for the appearance of diseases of deciduous teeth are not very different from the causes of problems with permanent teeth. It is:

• insufficient care for them (lack of proper hygiene),
• eating disorders,
• impairment of immunity due to other diseases and taking certain medications.

It is a mistake to think that milk teeth can be not carefully monitored on the grounds that they will fall out anyway. A sick tooth in the mouth is a breeding ground for pathogenic bacteria, which not only destroy other teeth, but also negatively affect digestion, lororgan. A prematurely lost milk tooth is also a problem, since it does not allow the baby to fully chew food, to articulate sounds with high quality. In addition, adjacent teeth try to take the vacant space – they move.And when a permanent tooth begins to grow here, it simply will not have enough space in the dentition and will have to grow sideways. That is why it is necessary to keep an eye on milk teeth, it is imperative to treat them on time!

Some of the pathogenic bacteria we ourselves, out of ignorance, bring into the baby’s oral cavity. Suffice it to recall the grandmother’s method of disinfecting a fallen nipple: lick it – and into the baby’s mouth. How many times have we done this? Did you feed the child with your spoon? Did you take turns biting an apple or a bun with him? Imagine for a moment the condition of your teeth and only the tender teeth of a child that have appeared, not fully formed.What kind of danger did you put them in?

Particularly harmful is foreign microflora to a baby under 2 years old, while temporary teeth ripen in his mouth and their enamel is very vulnerable.

Food debris also contributes to the rapid growth of bacteria in the oral cavity. A by-product of their activity is acid, it is it that eats away the enamel of the milk tooth, leaving its delicate base – dentin – without protection. Then the matter is small: microorganisms invade dentin and destroy it. This is how caries proceeds. Outwardly, a sore tooth may look normal for a long time: a small black dot (the site of the lesion) is not too noticeable.But inside, it can already be severely destroyed, since caries of milk teeth, due to the softness of their tissues, develops much faster than permanent ones.

There is also the so-called “bottle caries” – a brownish plaque on the front teeth. It is very durable and does not lend itself to brushing. Such teeth decay quickly. This caries is called “bottle-necked” because it is a consequence of feeding a baby from a bottle with sugary drinks and juices at night and during the night. Carbohydrates are known to be the best food for bacteria.Getting such a wonderful nourishment, pathogenic bacteria multiply rapidly and take over the entire territory available to them. It will be very difficult to get them to surrender their positions. The development of “bottle caries” is also facilitated by the fact that at night the natural protector and cleaner of teeth – saliva – is almost not produced. While you are sleeping peacefully, the fragile little teeth of your crumbs are subjected to a powerful attack and are not protected by anything! Should you buy yourself a vacation at such a price?

Dangerous complications of caries are pulpitis and periodontitis.

Pulpitis is an inflammation of the pulp (the core of the tooth filled with blood vessels and nerve fibers). In babies, the pulp is practically insensitive, so they may not feel the usual sign of pulpitis – sharp pain. As a result, pulpitis of milk teeth may not even be noticed by an attentive parent, and the role of preventive examinations at the dentist is irreplaceable here.

If bacteria have passed through the root of a milk tooth and left in the gum tissue, their inflammation begins – periodontitis.Severe pain and temperature are already guaranteed here. The gums become red and swollen. Periodontitis is a serious illness; in no case should a child be brought to it.

With timely access to the dentist, all these troubles can be avoided. Caries is very easy to treat. Here, however, the first place comes the question of exactly where to apply. It turns out that the approach to the treatment of milk teeth in different clinics is very different.

Traditionally, decay of deciduous teeth is treated in a hurry: a small child usually does not really want to endure while the doctor digs in his mouth, so the doctor tries to somehow clean out the damaged area and fill it with fast-hardening material.As a result, the affected teeth remain untreated and may soon become inflamed or completely destroyed. Sometimes you even have to put crowns on milk teeth.

The Nutcracker uses all the possibilities of modern medicine to fully help the smallest patients: from composite materials to “laughing gas” and Sevoran anesthesia. We are convinced that the treatment of milk teeth should be of high quality, and the baby’s impressions from the clinic should be the most pleasant.

How is the replacement of primary teeth in children with permanent ones?

This is a truly amazing process.Milk teeth still do not think to fall out, and permanent teeth – molars – are already forming in the child’s jaws. The order of changing milk teeth in children suggests that as they grow, the roots of the milk teeth dissolve, because of which they begin to stagger and soon fall out. The order of appearance of molars is approximately the same as for temporary ones; terms – from six to 12-14 years, and “wisdom” teeth grow only by 20-25 years.

What should be done for the health of milk teeth?

Let’s summarize all those simple and, in general, obvious rules that will help us to preserve the healthy baby teeth given by nature throughout the entire period of functioning and not to bring it to the moment when the baby has a baby tooth hurts or its premature loss occurs.

• Avoid unnecessary medication during pregnancy and lactation to avoid damaging the developing teeth.
• Eat healthy food during pregnancy.
• Feed your baby with breast milk.
• Introduce solid foods into your child’s diet on time.
• Do not eat with your baby in the same spoon (especially under two years of age), do not lick his nipple for the purpose of “disinfection”.
• Do not let your child fall asleep with a bottle of sugary drink.
• Carefully monitor your child’s oral hygiene from the first days of life.
• Have a regular check-up with your child at the pediatric dentist.

90 025 90 000 Molars in children – eruption and growth symptoms

Of course, molars in children deserve a separate discussion. Firstly, because parents often confuse which of the teeth are milk and which are permanent, and secondly, because their eruption causes extremely unpleasant and even painful sensations and is often accompanied by an increase in temperature.

When molars grow

Many parents believe that molars are permanent teeth, that is, those that replace milk teeth. But actually it is not. So what are the child’s teeth? In fact, molars are classified as permanent and deciduous. In this case, the order of eruption of molars in children is as follows. At six months, babies begin to notice their first molars. There are four of them, and they are located on the lower and upper parts of the jaw apparatus.In one and a half years, central molars appear, in two and a half – lateral ones. From 5 to 10 years old, milk teeth are replaced by permanent ones. Until about 25 years of age, the most difficult tooth – “wisdom” – is cut through.

What symptoms accompany the growth of teeth

Not all parents know how molars grow in children, which is why they start to get very worried when they notice some unpleasant symptoms. Let’s see what phenomena accompany the growth of teeth.

Elevated temperature.During the period of tooth growth, children may have a temperature of 37–37.5 ° C. In some cases, it rises to 38 ° C. Why is this happening? The fact is that when swelling in the gums, the blood flow increases, and in order to compensate for the swelling, the body produces biologically active substances, which affects the state of immunity. As a result, the temperature rises.

General malaise. Very often, when teething, children seem lethargic and tired. This is due to the fact that it is a great stress for the body.As a result, the child may sleep poorly, babies often become irritable, spit out a pacifier, begin to suck their thumb and are constantly naughty.

Increased salivation. This is especially true in young children (aged 5-7 months). At this time, they do not yet independently regulate the amount of saliva in the mouth. A large amount of saliva indicates irritation of the sensory nerves of the gums, which is completely normal when teeth appear. Over time, with the development of the reflex, the amount of saliva decreases.

Digestive upset. Teething is often accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, and regurgitation. The reason for this is an increase in the amount of fluid that the baby drinks during the day.

How to help

In order to speed up the teething process, small children can be given special toys. They are usually in the form of rings. Instead of these items, you can use a regular crust of bread or peeled fresh carrots. Also, during this period, the child is recommended to give cool drinks, it is better if it is just water.You can distract toddlers and older children through play, conversation, and fun music. Do not forget that during this period the child needs double affection, the special care of the parents. For severe pain, doctors prescribe age-appropriate analgesics. A clean, soft cloth soaked in cold water can be applied to the gums. This is especially helpful at bedtime, as it can help relieve pain and allow the baby to fall asleep.

help for the baby during this period

Teething is a very hectic period, it begins at the age of 4 months and later.Almost all children during this period become disobedient and restless. Some children, due to teething, have a cough, runny nose, fever, diarrhea.

When and in what order are the first teeth cut?

The first rudiments of teeth appear in the fetus while still in the womb. There cannot be a certain order and exact timing of teething in children, each child is individual. The timing of the appearance of teeth can vary greatly for different children and depend on the body of the child and his parents.

There are cases when a newborn child was born with one tooth and when children under one and a half years of age had no teeth. In most babies, the first teeth appear between 4 and 7 months. Some experts believe that if the mother’s teeth appeared late, then the children will have them too late. However, this should not be taken as a rule.

Teeth usually appear in the following order:

first incisors,

second cutters,

first molars,

canines,

second molars.

By the age of 3 years, 20 teeth appear, they will serve the child up to 6 years old, after which they will begin to fall out and in their place permanent teeth are cut.

First signs of teething

If a child has a lot of salivation, the gums become painful and swollen, then it is time for teething. The first symptoms can be noticed a month before the moment when the tooth itself appears. The child becomes moody, sleeps poorly, refuses to eat.At this time, he has a desire to gnaw on various objects. Over time, a whitish line or bulge appears on the gum.

Runny nose, cough, fever: teeth or a cold?

Teething may be accompanied by a slight cough, fever, but since there is a risk of various infections in the first two years of life, such symptoms should not be immediately attributed to teething.

The child’s temperature rises due to the large amount of biologically active substances secreted in the area of ​​tooth growth.Usually the temperature lasts 1-2 days and does not exceed 38-39 ° C. If the temperature exceeds 39 ° C or persists for more than two days, you should call a doctor.

Diarrhea appears in a child during this period due to strong salivation and accelerated intestinal motility. The stool in babies becomes watery and manifests itself up to 2-3 times a day. If there is watery diarrhea or diarrhea with blood more than three times a day, the child should be shown to a doctor, it may be an intestinal infection.

A runny nose during this period is due to the fact that a large amount of mucus is secreted by the glands of the nasal cavity.The discharge is transparent, lasts no more than three days, there is no need to treat such a runny nose. The main thing is to cleanse the child’s nose from phlegm during the time. If the discharge from the nose becomes greenish, the nose is stuffy, the runny nose lasts more than three days, a pediatrician consultation is necessary.

A wet cough is due to the fact that saliva accumulates in the child’s neck, which is secreted in large quantities during this period. The child rarely coughs, usually only when lying down. The cough usually clears up in two to three days.He does not require treatment. If the child coughs often, the cough is accompanied by wheezing in the bronchi, sputum and shortness of breath, you should call a doctor. At the slightest doubt whether the symptoms that appear relate to teething or are they signs of some kind of disease, it is better to show the child to a specialist.

Helping a baby during teething

Parents should support the baby during this period. You need to take him in your arms more often, distract him from the pain with interesting activities. Being breastfed, the baby can easily calm down at the mother’s breast.You should not adhere to the schedule during this period, much less try to wean the baby. Let him apply to the breast more often than usual for several hectic days for the baby.

Since during this period children have a desire to gnaw or chew something, offer the child a special rubber ring or a special toy – a teether. It can be any other object that the child himself has chosen, the main thing is to make sure that there are no sharp corners, small parts on it.

Play is sometimes the best way for a child to forget about pain. Play with your baby, take a walk with him. Children tend to change their mood quickly. And during the game, he will laugh happily, although a few minutes ago he was crying and being capricious.

If the child’s gums hurt very badly, he cries a lot, refuses to eat, special gels can be used to facilitate teething and eliminate pain (Kalgel, Kamistad). The gel is applied with a finger to the child’s gums several times a day.

Molars teeth and their features

Date of publication: 01.10.2019

Molars or large chewing teeth are the largest dental units located on the upper and lower jaw on the left and right sides. They are designed to chew and grind food. The last molar in each dentition is a wisdom tooth, which can erupt at any age or not at all. An adult has 8 to 12 molars in the oral cavity, while preschool children have 8.

When do molars erupt?

Molars are the last teeth that erupt in the lower and upper dentition in a child. As a rule, the first units appear on the lower jaw at the age of 12-18 months, after a month molars also erupt in the upper row. Secondary molars are shown in a child aged 24-30 months.

Replacement of milk molars of the lower jaw occurs at the age of 6-8 years. In place of the upper units, molars grow only by the age of 9-12.However, these are average indicators, they may vary depending on individual characteristics.

The timing of eruption depends on the following factors :

• hereditary predisposition;

90,021 general health status of the child;

• congenital features;
• climatic living conditions;

90,021 nutritional characteristics;

90,021 sex of the child.

Features of molars

Large molars differ from other groups not only in external characteristics, but also have other features :

• these are the largest units in each dentition;
• have the largest chewing surface;
• have a powerful root system;

90,021 the upper molars are slightly larger than those of the lower jaw;

• have a tougher surface finish;
• capable of withstanding weight up to 75 kg;

90,021 upper molars have 4-6 canals, while lower molars generally have only 3 canals;

• molars of the upper jaw have 3 roots (palatine, buccal-medial, buccal-distal), less often 4;

90,021 chewing teeth of the lower jaw have only 2 roots;

90,021 wisdom teeth are the latest molars that may appear by the age of 50 or not erupt at all;

• the last molars are very often located not in the chewing arch, that is, they can grow horizontally or with a slight slope, located buccal or towards the tongue or palate;

90,021 wisdom teeth have 1 to 5 masticatory tubercles;

• the last molars often have a complex root configuration (curvature, accretion).