Teething when start. When Does Teething Start? Essential Guide to Baby Teeth Care
When do babies start teething. How can you soothe a teething baby. What are the best practices for caring for baby teeth. How to recognize teething symptoms. When should you schedule your baby’s first dental appointment.
Understanding the Teething Process
Teething, medically known as odontiasis, is a significant milestone in a baby’s development. It occurs when a baby’s teeth begin to emerge through their gums. This process can be both exciting and challenging for parents and caregivers. Understanding the teething timeline and its associated symptoms can help you better prepare for this important phase in your child’s life.
The Teething Timeline
Did you know that babies are born with a full set of 20 primary teeth hidden beneath their gum line? These teeth typically start to emerge between six and twelve months of age, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). By the time a child reaches three years old, they usually have a complete set of primary teeth.
It’s important to note that the teething process can vary significantly from one child to another. Some babies may start teething earlier or later than the average timeframe. If you’re concerned about your baby’s dental development, it’s always best to consult with a pediatric dentist.
Recognizing Teething Symptoms
Teething can be an uncomfortable experience for babies, often resulting in various symptoms. While some infants may sail through the process with minimal discomfort, others might experience more pronounced signs of teething.
- Increased fussiness and irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive drooling
- Tendency to chew on objects
Is it normal for babies to have a fever during teething? While mild discomfort is common, prolonged fussiness, high fever, diarrhea, or rash are not typical teething symptoms. If your baby experiences these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with your pediatrician, as they may indicate other health issues.
Effective Techniques to Soothe a Teething Baby
As a parent or caregiver, witnessing your baby’s discomfort during teething can be distressing. Fortunately, there are several safe and effective methods to help alleviate your baby’s teething pain.
Gentle Gum Massage
One of the simplest ways to provide relief is by gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger. This can help alleviate pressure and soothe sore gums. Always ensure your hands are thoroughly washed before attempting this method.
Cold Therapy
Applying something cold to your baby’s gums can help numb the area and reduce inflammation. You can use:
- A chilled (never frozen) teething ring
- A clean, cold washcloth
- A cold spoon (metal spoons work best for retaining coolness)
Are teething necklaces safe for babies? Despite their popularity, child health experts do not recommend teething necklaces due to the risk of choking and strangulation. It’s best to stick with safer alternatives.
Cold Foods
If your baby has started solid foods, you can offer cold foods to help soothe their gums. Some options include:
- Chilled strawberries
- Small pieces of cucumber
- Unsweetened teething biscuits
Always supervise your baby when offering solid foods to prevent choking hazards.
The Truth About Teething Medications
When faced with a fussy, teething baby, parents often seek quick relief through over-the-counter medications. However, it’s crucial to understand the effectiveness and safety of these products before use.
Topical Teething Gels
Are numbing gels safe for teething babies? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against using numbing gels containing benzocaine for children under two years old. These products can lead to rare but severe side effects and are generally not recommended.
Homeopathic Teething Tablets
The FDA has also issued warnings about homeopathic teething tablets. Laboratory testing revealed varying amounts of belladonna, a toxic substance, in these products. In some cases, the belladonna content exceeded the amount listed on the label. As these products are not evaluated or approved by the FDA, it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Safe Pain Relief Options
For babies older than six months, a small dose of acetaminophen may help alleviate teething discomfort. However, it’s crucial to consult with your pediatrician before administering any medication to your child. Always follow the prescribed dosage and guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
Essential Baby Teeth Care Practices
Proper oral care should begin even before your baby’s first tooth emerges. Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on can help prevent tooth decay and set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Pre-Teething Oral Care
How can you care for your baby’s oral health before teeth appear? Start by gently cleaning your baby’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth or piece of gauze once per day. This practice helps remove bacteria and gets your baby accustomed to oral care routines.
First Tooth Care
As soon as your baby’s first tooth emerges, it’s time to introduce a toothbrush and toothpaste into their oral care routine. Use a soft-bristled, infant-sized toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice for children under three years old). Look for toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance to ensure it meets safety and efficacy standards.
Flossing for Baby Teeth
When should you start flossing your baby’s teeth? Once your baby has two teeth that touch, it’s time to begin flossing between them. This helps remove plaque and food particles that can lead to tooth decay. If you’re finding it challenging to floss your baby’s teeth, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for tips and techniques.
Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Baby bottle tooth decay is a common issue that can affect infants and toddlers. It occurs when the teeth are frequently exposed to sugary liquids, including milk, formula, and fruit juices.
How can you prevent baby bottle tooth decay? One crucial step is to avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle. When babies fall asleep while drinking from a bottle, the liquid pools around their teeth, providing a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and cause decay.
Tips for Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
- Only put water in bedtime bottles
- Clean your baby’s gums or brush their teeth after each feeding
- Avoid dipping pacifiers in sweet substances like honey or sugar water
- Introduce a cup for drinking around 6 months of age
- Limit sugary drinks and encourage water consumption
The Importance of Early Dental Visits
Many parents wonder when they should schedule their baby’s first dental appointment. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears, whichever comes first.
Benefits of Early Dental Visits
Early dental visits offer numerous benefits:
- Allows the dentist to check for early signs of tooth decay
- Provides an opportunity to discuss proper oral hygiene techniques
- Helps your child become comfortable with dental visits from a young age
- Allows for early detection and treatment of any potential dental issues
Preparing for the First Dental Visit
To make your baby’s first dental visit a positive experience:
- Choose a pediatric dentist or a dentist experienced in treating young children
- Schedule the appointment at a time when your baby is usually alert and cooperative
- Bring a list of questions or concerns you may have about your baby’s oral health
- Be prepared to hold your baby during the examination if necessary
Remember, regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining your child’s oral health and preventing potential dental problems in the future.
Addressing Common Teething Concerns
As your baby goes through the teething process, you may encounter various concerns and questions. Understanding these common issues can help you navigate this challenging period more effectively.
Teething and Sleep Disturbances
Can teething cause sleep regression? Teething discomfort can indeed disrupt your baby’s sleep patterns. Some babies may have trouble falling asleep or wake more frequently during the night. To help your baby sleep better during teething:
- Maintain a consistent bedtime routine
- Offer extra comfort and soothing before bedtime
- Use a cold teething ring or washcloth before sleep to numb the gums
- Consider using white noise to help your baby stay asleep
Teething and Feeding Issues
Some babies may experience a temporary loss of appetite during teething. This is often due to sore gums making sucking or chewing uncomfortable. To ensure your baby gets proper nutrition during this time:
- Offer smaller, more frequent feedings
- Try different bottle nipples or sippy cup spouts
- For babies on solids, offer cool, soft foods that are easy to eat
- Consult with your pediatrician if feeding issues persist
Recognizing Teething vs. Illness
How can you differentiate between teething symptoms and signs of illness? While teething can cause mild discomfort and irritability, it typically doesn’t cause high fever, severe diarrhea, or prolonged symptoms. If your baby experiences these symptoms, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician to rule out other health issues.
Remember, every baby experiences teething differently. What works for one child may not work for another. Be patient and willing to try different soothing techniques to find what works best for your baby. If you have concerns about your baby’s teething process or oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or dentist for guidance.
When Does Teething Start and How to Care for Baby Teeth –
The first smile, the first giggle, and the first tooth – each are significant and exciting milestones in a baby’s life. However, teething, in particular, is a challenging time for a child and their parents or caregivers. When those first teeth come in, babies can experience various uncomfortable symptoms that can cause irritability and sleeplessness for everyone in the family. Furthermore, teething is also the time to start thinking about caring for baby teeth, as tooth decay can begin when a baby’s new teeth appear. Continue reading to learn more about teething and how to care for baby teeth.
WHAT IS TEETHING?
Teething occurs when a baby’s teeth erupt (or cut) through their gums. The medical term for this is odontiasis.
WHEN DOES TEETHING START?
Babies are born with 20 primary teeth (baby teeth) below their gum line. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), most babies typically begin to teethe between six and twelve months. By the time they turn three, children usually have a complete set of primary teeth.
WHAT SYMPTOMS DOES TEETHING CAUSE?
Every child is different. So we encourage you to keep in mind that while some babies have little to no discomfort while they teethe, others experience pain and various other symptoms.
Below are some common teething symptoms:
- Fussiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Drooling more than usual
However, if your baby experiences prolonged fussiness, fever, diarrhea, or a rash when they teethe, you should make an appointment with their pediatrician. These symptoms are not typical and may not be the result of teething.
HOW TO SOOTHE A BABY DURING TEETHING
Again, every child is different, so what works for one baby might not work for another. Thankfully, there are some tried and true at-home remedies you can try to help your baby feel better.
- Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger.
- Hold a chilled (never frozen) spoon, washcloth, or rubber teething ring to your baby’s gums. Avoid teething rings made of plastic or filled with liquid, as these are dangerous and may break or leak. It’s also necessary to note that child health experts do not consider teething necklaces safe because they can break and cause strangling.
- Offer your baby cold foods (like chilled strawberries or small cucumber pieces) or unsweetened teething biscuits ONLY if they already eat solid foods. Never leave your baby unattended with food because it is a choking hazard.
ARE THERE ANY MEDICATIONS FOR TEETHING?
Teething medications are generally not effective, as they wash away from the gums and may numb the back of the throat, making swallowing difficult.
Numbing gels and teething tablets with benzocaine are not recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for children under two, as they can lead to rare but severe side effects.
The FDA also recommends avoiding and disposing of homeopathic teething tablets. After lab testing, researchers found varying amounts of a toxic substance called belladonna. In some cases, the amount of belladonna in these products exceeded the amount listed on the label. Furthermore, the FDA has not evaluated or approved homeopathic teething tablets.
A small amount of a child’s pain reliever, like acetaminophen, may be helpful for babies older than six months. Remember, always consult with your pediatrician before giving any medication to your child and use it only as prescribed.
HOW TO CARE FOR BABY TEETH
Oral care isn’t just for older children, teenagers, and adults – good oral hygiene is essential for babies, too, as tooth decay can begin as soon as baby teeth emerge.
Below are some essential tips on keeping your baby’s teeth healthy:
- Before baby teeth erupt, clean your baby’s gums with a clean, damp washcloth or piece of gauze once per day.
- As soon as your baby’s first tooth appears, brush it with water and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. For kids three years old and younger, the amount of toothpaste used should be about the size of a grain of rice.
- Your baby’s first tooth also means it’s time to schedule their first dental appointment. Schedule the appointment no later than their first birthday.
- If your baby has at least two teeth touching, that also means it’s time to start cleaning between their teeth. Child-friendly flossing can help, and if you are struggling, talk to your dentist about it. They can give you some tips to make the job easier.
- Never put your baby to bed with a bottle to help prevent plaque and tooth decay.
FAMILY DENTISTRY | THE LANDING DENTAL SPA
If you have questions about teething, how to care for baby teeth, or need to make your baby’s first dental appointment, we invite you to make an appointment at The Landing Dental Spa located in Morgantown, West Virginia. Our dentists, Dr. Lemley and Dr. Ayers, care about your child’s health and want them to have a healthy smile for years to come. If you would like to set up an appointment, give us a call at 304-594-2200 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to making you and your family smile!
Teething Symptoms & Advice | What Do Teething Gums Look Like?
Do you suspect that your baby or toddler may be teething? This article will guide you through teething symptoms in babies and toddlers, what to expect when it comes to a teething timeline, how to inspect your child’s gums safely, tips for baby teething relief, and advice on when to see a dentist about your child’s teething process.
Baby Teething Symptoms
Teething symptoms in babies and toddlers are often very similar. At any age, signs of teething may include:
- Red, swollen or bulging gums
- Excessive drooling
- Flushed cheeks or a facial rash
- Chewing, gnawing or sucking on their fist or toys
- Rubbing or pulling their ear on the same side as an erupting tooth
- Restless sleep and crying at night
- Difficulty with feeding
- A fever or diarrhoea
Teething Timeline
Teething at 3 Months
Can your baby grow and cut milk teeth at 3 months old? While the first signs of teething typically occur between 4 and 6 months of age, it’s quite common for teeth to erupt at 3 months old due to heredity. Behaviour such as biting and chewing on fingers and toys can encourage teeth to arrive early.
Typically, the first teeth to erupt are the two in the front bottom (lower central incisors), followed by the upper central incisors and upper lateral incisors at 8 to 12 months. Your baby’s lower lateral incisors will erupt between 10 to 16 months, until they have six teeth in total.
Teething Molars
Your baby’s molars are the last teeth to arrive. While the exact timing will vary from child to child, most first top molars erupt between 13 and 20 months of age. The first bottom molars typically emerge between 14 and 18 months of age.
How Long Will Teething Last?
Teething can last for a year or more. Most children will have their full set of 20 milk teeth by the time they are 3 years old. When they reach 5 or 6, these teeth will start to fall out, creating room for adult teeth.
What Do Teething Gums Look Like?
Make sure your hands and fingers are clean before you examine your baby’s mouth. Peel back your baby’s lip very gently to examine her gums.
Do you see bulging pink gums, especially around the molars, or a small white bud that could be your baby’s first tooth? You might also spot a bluish buildup of fluid called a teething blister or eruption cyst. Although you should avoid touching it, this blister is absolutely normal and will usually go away without treatment. If it does not, speak with your dentist.
Next, gently touch or massage your baby’s gums to feel for a hard tooth growing underneath. This can help provide relief to your baby and help you figure out if they are teething.
Baby Teething Relief
Is your teething baby crying hysterically during the day or at night? If so, you might be wondering about solutions for baby teething relief, how to soothe a teething baby at night, or how you can help them sleep.
There are many simple and homemade ways to soothe a baby’s painful gums. However, if you find that your baby is experiencing a lot of distress, it may be worthwhile to visit your dentist, who can examine your baby’s growing tooth buds and offer personalised advice.
Here are some of the best methods for baby teething relief (that don’t involve using pain relief products or harmful teething gels):
- Give your baby something cool to bite on to relieve the pressure and ease the pain, such as a clean, damp face cloth (washed in an unscented detergent for sensitive skin, and left in the fridge for 30 minutes).
- Gently massage your baby’s gums with one or two clean fingers in a circular motion to help numb the pain. This can stimulate the gums and get you both in the habit of daily oral cleaning.
- Give your baby a teething toy, such as a solid, silicone-based teething ring that has been chilled in the fridge (not frozen in the freezer), to help relieve discomfort.
- Gently wipe away drool regularly with a soft cloth to avoid skin irritation, adding to your child’s discomfort.
If your baby is six months old or older:
- Encourage small, frequent sips of icy cold water from a feeding cup or bottle throughout the day.
- Give them a cold piece of raw fruit or vegetable to chew on, such as a small piece of chilled apple, carrot or cucumber.
- Offer them a cold liquid such as fruit puree, blended peaches or plain yoghurt to help soothe their gums.
What Should I Do If My Teething Child Has Difficulty With Feeding?
If your baby is breastfeeding, you may discover they feed eagerly at first, then pull back because the sucking action makes their gums and ear canals uncomfortable. If this is the case, wait a few minutes, try some of the methods of baby teething pain relief describe above, and try again until your baby seems satisfied.
If your baby is old enough to eat solids, eating with a spoon while teething can irritate their delicate or inflamed gums. During this time, you may opt to nurse or bottle-feed more often.
When Should I Talk To A Dentist About My Child’s Teething?
If you are worried about your baby’s teething, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist. A dental examination will help your dentist investigate potential problems and alleviate any fears you may have. Teething is a natural rite of passage for every child, but complications may sometimes emerge. Remember to inform your dentist about the signs and symptoms your baby or toddler has been experiencing, and what steps you have taken to help soothe them.
Need advice about your child’s teething symptoms and help for soothing the pain? Contact the friendly staff at Australia Dental on (07) 3888 9125 or (07) 3284 7112 to book a dental appointment today.
Teething in children – When the first teeth are cut in a child
Timely teething, which usually occurs between the ages of 4 months and 3 years, is an indicator of normal growth, physical development and health of the baby.
Timing of teething
Much in the development of a child’s body depends on heredity: a baby often starts teething at the same age as his mother or father. In one in 2,000 cases, a baby is already born with one or two teeth. But most often the first teeth grow in children aged 4 to 7 months, but there is no strict time frame on this.
The most common variant is when at 12 months the child already has 8 teeth – 4 lower and 4 upper incisors. Three-year-old children usually have 20 teeth, from the age of 6 they begin to stagger and fall out, making room for the molars.
Signs of teething
How can you tell if a child is teething? This is evidenced by the following symptoms:
- Swollen gums, more salivation than usual.
- The child is naughty, does not sleep well, refuses to eat.
- Toddler tries to “chew” his toys or fingers.
- A white line is visible on the surface of the gums.
- Breastfed babies bite on their mother’s breasts.
Sometimes teething causes fever, diarrhoea, cough and even runny nose. The process of growth of the upper teeth is characterized by a translucent discharge from the nose.
How to help a child who is teething?
First of all, parents should be sympathetic to the whims of the child. Distract his attention with something interesting, cheer him up if he cries. Here are some more tips:
- Give your baby a piece of bread or a rubber teether. This will help him soothe itchy gums.
- Use special anesthetic gels such as Kamistad or Calgel. Apply the gel with your finger, lightly massaging the gums, up to 5-6 times a day.
- For fever, give the child paracetamol at a dose appropriate for age and weight.
- Unpleasant symptoms can be relieved with the homeopathic preparation “Dentokind”.
If the temperature is above 38.5-39 degrees or persists for more than 2-3 days, it is recommended to call a pediatrician. It is also necessary to consult a doctor with frequent diarrhea (more than 3 times a day), especially if it is with blood.
Teething runny nose is harmless and resolves in a few days. If the discharge from the nose is green, then this is a viral infection, which should be treated by a doctor.
What should not be done when teething?
Do not try to speed up the eruption process. Some parents cut the gum, hoping that this will help the tooth come out faster. This is a big mistake that can lead to tissue infection and worsening of the child’s condition.
Do not give children sharp objects that can cut delicate gums. Such items include pieces of refined sugar, plastic cubes, and any other toys with sharp edges.
If you are worried that your baby is not teething properly, talk to your doctor. You can find a list of pediatric dentists on our website.
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Teething in children: what parents need to know
This natural and physiological process usually begins at about six months of age – this is the average period from which there may be deviations in one direction or another. Depending on various factors, babies’ teeth often erupt a little earlier or later. In this article, we will see how this happens.
Process
Despite the fact that the child is born toothless, his gums tightly cover the alveolar process, forming a kind of roller. There are already rudiments of teeth inside the jaws, since dental follicles are laid at the very beginning of intrauterine development, at 6-8 weeks of embryogenesis.
By the time the baby is born, he already has 10 temporary (milk) and 8 permanent (radical) dental units, which are at different stages of development and mineralization. The formation of the remaining rudiments occurs after birth.
When the process of formation of the crown part of the teeth is completed, they break through the gums and come to the surface, after which the formation of the root system starts.
First, 2 lower incisors appear, located in the middle of the jaw. Then the top two incisors are cut in the center. Often they become noticeable almost simultaneously, which is not a deviation from the norm.
Further, the first, then the second premolars and canines sequentially germinate. The upper jaw usually lags behind the lower jaw in time.
The end of the formation of milk occlusion falls on the age of 2-2.5 years.
In some babies, teeth are cut asymptomatically, without causing much concern, while others experience pain and itching, which is often accompanied by a rise in temperature and poor health.
Here is a small table to make it clear how many months the first teeth are cut:
Name | Term by age, months | |
Lower | Upper | |
Central incisors | 4-10 | 7-12 |
Lateral incisors | 7-16 | 9-13 |
fangs | 16-23 | 16-22 |
First premolars | 12-18 | 13-19 |
Second premolars | 20-31 | 25-33 |
Baby’s first teeth
Normally, the first teeth come out at 5-6 months. First, one central lower incisor appears, the second is cut almost immediately. In general, milk teeth erupt in pairs: if one climbs, then the second begins to grow almost simultaneously. It doesn’t matter if it’s an incisor, canine or premolar.
However, the concept of the norm in many cases can be considered conditional, because often even in healthy children the first teeth climb “out of plan”. Sometimes they are cut even in the first month of life! The reasons for this phenomenon are still unknown to science, but it does not affect the health of the teeth in the best way. Teeth that are cut too early are more vulnerable to cavities and are more likely to be extracted as they make breastfeeding nearly impossible.
It has been observed that teeth erupt earlier in children of young parents than in late-born children. But this is not a mandatory “rule”.
If teething in infants occurs against a background of high temperature, the gums itch and become inflamed, this process can and should be facilitated. Anesthetic gels and gum treatment with infusions of medicinal herbs will help the baby survive the difficult period.
Pediatric dentists advise parents to use special teething toys for milk teeth and massage the gums.
It is not worth writing off a lingering fever, indigestion and persistent cough for teething, as the cause may be an infectious or viral disease. With such symptoms, you should consult a pediatrician or dentist.
Consult a pediatrician
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Symptoms of “tooth fever”
Not all babies get their teeth out with pain and fever, preventing them from sleeping at night. Most babies tolerate the process quite calmly, and this is completely normal. However, there are typical symptoms:
- swelling and redness of the gums where the tooth is cut;
- the formation of a hematoma – a blood clot under the mucosa, which looks like a bluish bump;
- slight bleeding;
- itching in the gums, forcing the baby to put things in his mouth and gnaw on various objects;
- salivation, which often leads to the appearance of a rash and irritation around the lips, on the chin, cheeks. Sometimes even the skin on the chest suffers from increased salivation;
- regurgitation, vomiting;
- cough;
- sleep disturbance;
- loss of appetite, up to a complete refusal to eat;
- tearfulness, anxiety;
- rise in body temperature to 38 °.
Most often, one or more of these signs occur 3-5 days before teething begins. After they erupt, the symptoms quickly disappear. Hematoma may appear earlier, in 2-3 weeks. Usually it does not interfere with the baby in any way, but when it reaches a large size, the hematoma must be shown to the dentist: it may have to be cut and drained.
When the first teeth begin to erupt in babies, they try to “taste” everything and pull any objects in their reach into their mouths. The reason is a constant sensation of itching due to irritation of the sensitive nerve endings of the gums.
It is the itching and eternal chewing of everything that comes across that causes profuse salivation. There are several other reasons for this:
- small volume of the oral cavity;
- mastering the sitting position, which coincides in time with the eruption of the incisors;
- lack of skill to swallow saliva and control its amount.
Attention! Canines erupt most painfully, due to their location and shape of the crown. They have very sharp edges, and the upper fangs – eye teeth – are also located near the fibers of the facial nerve. Irritation of the latter responds with very severe pain, which can even radiate to the eyes.
Other side effects of eruption
When babies are teething, they often cough, causing concern to parents. Coughing is completely normal for this period, as it occurs due to saliva entering the respiratory tract. Another side effect is possible vomiting. Do not be afraid of this, the main thing is to know what to do.
Cough
The fact is that long before the eruption of the incisors in the salivary glands, secretion production increases. Increased salivation and swollen gums can be seen a month or even 2 before the teeth start to cut.
When saliva enters the nasopharynx, the child develops a runny nose, which is often accompanied by wheezing.
Babies lack the skill of swallowing and controlling the amount of saliva that accumulates in the throat, especially when lying down. Saliva enters the airways, and the baby tries to release them with a cough.
Gagging
Vomiting is less common than coughing, but its cause is also increased salivation. Part of the saliva ends up in the baby’s stomach, which reacts with spasms.
Case study:
A 7-month-old infant was hospitalized in the infectious department with symptoms of an intestinal infection. Complaints of repeated vomiting, diarrhea for 4 days. The parents attributed the symptoms to teething and did not seek help sooner, which led to severe dehydration.
Temperature
This is the most common symptom that occurs when a child is teething. Values up to 38.5° are considered normal. The temperature usually lasts no more than 3 days.
But there are still exceptions to this rule. If a child’s tooth is cut very actively, or several units climb at once, the temperature can reach 39 and even 40 °.
Book an online consultation if your child’s temperature does not drop within 3-4 days. Our doctors can help determine the cause of the fever, give advice to alleviate the condition, and, if necessary, help with hospitalization.
What to do if children are teething
There are several ways to ease the condition of the baby when he is teething. The choice is wide enough, and parents can use:
- gum massage;
- plastic teethers in the form of funny toys;
- local remedies – pharmacy gels, ointments;
- herbal decoctions and infusions;
- mixtures of essential and vegetable oils;
- antipyretic drugs.
How to massage when teething
You can massage the gums of a child with a finger wrapped in a wet bandage (gauze), or use a special Asepta Baby fingertip, which is sold in pharmacies. It is intended for massage during the period when teeth are being cut, and for cleansing the oral cavity in infants, and also has an anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effect.
Gum massage should start from the borders surrounding the diseased area, and be carried out towards the place where the teeth of the infants climb. Movements can be stroking, rubbing, kneading. It is necessary to observe which manipulations help the child the most.
The very well of the tooth, which is about to germinate, should be avoided in order not to provoke additional problems and worsen the condition of the child.
If you act on the gums with gauze or a bandage, then their rough surface will easily relieve itching. Moisten the bandage preferably with cool water. As for Asepta’s fingertips, their advantage is the ability to “get” any place due to the soft fibers of a napkin soaked in chamomile and witch hazel extracts.
Teethers
To relieve itching, it is recommended to use teethers. They not only perfectly relieve itching, but also distract the child, but most importantly, they prevent the risk of damage to the gums.
You need to choose a teether taking into account the age of the crumbs, after looking at the photo of the products on the Internet.
Age, months | Type of rodents |
5-8 | Round silicone or latex. Only soft items will do. |
7-12 | Plastic, silicone models of medium hardness. You can buy toys in the form of nipples, rattles, as well as teethers made of fabric and with a cooling effect. |
9-16 | Plastic, wooden, silicone, with increased rigidity. Preference should be given to products with lateral protrusions to stimulate areas where premolars are cut. |
12-18 | This is the time when fangs are cut. Third, if counted from the first central incisor. Therefore, it is advisable to choose models made of soft plastic or silicone, as well as with a cooling effect. The ideal shape is with side protrusions such as the ears of a mouse or the horns of a bull toy. |
Ointments and gels
Dental gels with analgesic action are applied to the gums, where teeth are cut, several times a day.
Some of the drugs have age restrictions – for example, Holisal gel can only be used in children older than 12 months. In addition, it and a number of other products contain the local anesthetic lidocaine, which requires careful handling. You can not apply it more often or in larger quantities than indicated in the instructions.
Blends of oils and herbs
Regardless of how many months the baby is, you can lubricate his gums with soda solution, infusion of chamomile, oak bark, sage.
Essential oils must first be mixed with a vegetable base, which is better to take olive oil. Chamomile, lavender, clove, dill oil has analgesic properties.
Antipyretics
When a child is teething and the temperature rises, you can give antipyretics with ibuprofen or paracetamol. For babies, they are produced in the form of syrups and rectal suppositories, which is very convenient and safe.
It is worth bringing down the temperature if it is above 38-38.5 °. Taking antipyretics is allowed at lower values if the child is very naughty and feels unwell.
Antipyretic tablets are not given to children under 3 years of age, as it is difficult to correctly calculate the dose. You can use candles and syrups, which are marked “from the first days of life.” The order of reception is better to coordinate with the doctor.
If teeth are being cut, and the temperature has risen sharply, the child needs to be watered more often. Suitable warm water, fruit decoctions, rosehip infusion. Babies who are breastfed should be supplemented between feedings.
It is very important to keep the humidity in the room at least 40%. A humidifier works best with this task, in its absence, you can hang wet towels or sheets.