When does infants start teething: Signs and How to Soothe Baby

23.08.202309.07.2023 by alexxlab

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Signs and How to Soothe Baby

Teething is an important developmental milestone during a baby’s first year. It’s an exciting time, especially when you imagine them smiling with two little teeth peeking through. At the same time, it can also be stressful for the both of you.

Here’s what you need to know about teething, from what to expect and how to help your little one through the process.

Key Takeaways:

A baby’s teeth start coming in at around six months.
Signs and symptoms of teething include excessive drooling, biting and gnawing, and irritability.
Teething can be uncomfortable, but there are several ways to soothe and calm your infant down.

Baby Teething by Age: When Does a Baby’s Teeth Come In?

Technically, a baby starts “teething” before they’re even born. Their gums, tooth buds, enamel, and dentin begin developing during the eight week of pregnancy and will continue to harden and grow.

By the time you get to hold your bundle of joy, his mouth has 20 little tooth buds already in place — 10 on the top and 10 on the bottom.

Your baby will start teething a few months later, during which their baby teeth will erupt through the gums. They typically get their first tooth at the six-month mark.

Still, each baby follows their own teething schedule. With that said, here’s a general timeline of the baby teething process:

Teething from 0 to 3 Months

Some children are born with their first teeth already erupted (out of the gums), but this is rare. You might be able to feel the hard ridges of your baby’s teeth under the gums, though.

Teething at 4 to 7 Months

Most babies start teething around 6 months, give or take, along with the signs and symptoms of teething.

The first teeth usually appear at the bottom front of the mouth (aka the lower central incisors), followed by the top front teeth, which are known as the upper central incisors. By the time your baby is 8 or 9 months old, he’ll probably have two to four teeth.

Teething at 8 to 12 Months

By your child’s first birthday, he may have up to four teeth. The two top and bottom teeth in front (central and lateral incisors) are usually joined by another two — first molars — on the top and bottom. The last four teeth usually grow in around 15 to 18 months.

Teething at 12 to 18 Months

Molars (back teeth used for chewing) are next in line, followed by your child’s lateral incisors (the teeth beside the middle incisors). As these new teeth push through the gums, they may cause pain, irritability, and other symptoms.

Your child will probably have four molars (two on top, two on bottom) by the time she turns 2 years old.

Teething at 18 to 24 Months and Beyond

As your child gets older, keep an eye out for more teeth. Your child should get his first molars when he’s around a year old, followed by his second molars around two months of age. His first permanent or adult teeth will start coming in around age 6 and continue until he’s about 12 years old

Signs of Teething in Infants

The American Dental Association recommends that parents begin monitoring their children for tooth-eruption signs as early as three months of age.

Your baby’s first tooth may be coming in if you notice the following:

Fussiness and irritability
Drooling more than usual
Biting or chewing on fingers, toys, or other objects
Trouble sleeping (including waking up at night)
Ear pulling or cheek rubbing
Swollen gums with a visible white or bluish bump under the gum line
Have a slightly elevated body temperature or fever

Some children may not show any symptoms at all, while others have a harder time getting their first tooth.

Either way, pay close attention to any change in behavior. The above may also be symptoms of an ear infection and other conditions.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby

Most infants experience some discomfort as their first tooth starts to break through the gums. But for a small number of infants, it can be especially painful and disruptive.

Specifically, there are two types of teething pain: The first type is pressure on the gums as a tooth pushes through. This usually causes mild discomfort. The second type is caused by inflammation, which happens as the tooth breaks through the gum line, and this pain can be quite intense.

Here are some parenting tips on making them feel better during the day and at night.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby During the Day:

Discomfort can strike at any time, so always have ways to soothe your baby on hand whether you’re home and out running errands. Here are some suggestions:

Keep him calm and relaxed.

A quiet environment is best for fussy infants. Take them out of loud environments or away from busy play areas so they can settle down.

Rub their gums.

Gently massage their gums with a clean finger, wet gauze, or small cool spoon.

Give your baby something to chew on.

Cold numbs the gums and can help calm your child’s discomfort. Try a wet washcloth that has been chilled in the refrigerator (not wet then frozen, as this could damage their tender gums and baby teeth).

Similarly, cold food and drinks can help, so offer them often throughout the day.

For instance, try giving your little one some chilled formula or breast milk. You can also give them chilled yogurt drops, pureed fruit, or chopped fruit to chew on.

Give them a teething ring.

Toys like a teething ring are designed to be frozen or chilled in the refrigerator for safe pain relief. They also provide something for your baby to gnaw on, which will help relieve the pressure in their gums as their baby teeth erupt.

Look for toys that have bumps or nodules that massage your baby’s gums as he chews. Double-check the teething toy for safety.

The FDA warns consumers against letting a baby gnaw on anything that has PVC, BPA, and toxic paints.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby at Night:

If your baby is having trouble sleeping at night, here are some tips you can try:

Give your baby a cold washcloth to chew on.

Do this as you put her down for the night. This will keep her occupied while numbing the pain.

Put a cold compress on your baby’s face where the teeth are coming in.

You can make a compress by wetting a clean washcloth with cool water and putting it in the freezer for about 15 minutes before pressing it to your baby’s neck or cheeks.

Massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger.

Gently rubbing their delicate gums is a great way to make a baby comfortable no matter what time it is.

Keep it brief during the night, though. Too much stimulation might over-arouse your baby and make it more difficult for him or her to sleep.

Naturally soothe sore gums with chamomile tea bags.

Wet two chamomile tea bags and then chill them in the freezer until they’re cold but not frozen solid. Then let your child gnaw on them (supervise closely).

Aside from numbing the sore area, chamomile tea also has a calming effect that can help your baby fall or stay asleep.

Are Tylenol and Motrin Better for Teething? – Medicine for Teething Babies

Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) can also help relieve symptoms. These medicines are safe for most babies six months and older when used correctly.

Before administering any medication, even OTC ones, always check with your baby’s doctor.

More Tips on Dealing with Teething Symptoms

Many parents find it overwhelming to see their babies crying and fussing regardless of the reason. Here are more things to remember:

Always keep your baby’s mouth, face, hands, and teething toys clean.
To prevent hurting your baby’s gums, thaw frozen toys a bit before allowing them to gnaw on it.
Babies drool a lot as they get their first teeth, so keep them hydrated.
Don’t rub whiskey on their gums and inner cheeks. Any amount of liquor is dangerous for babies.
Avoid rubbing numbing agents inside your baby’s mouth. Consult your doctor before giving anything a baby swallows, including homeopathic teething gels and baby Orajel.
Don’t give them items like amber teething necklaces, as these can pose a choking risk. Use teething rings instead.
Be gentle with yourself and your baby during this time.

Finally, it’s never too early to take your baby to a pediatric dentist. For one, they can advise you about safe ways to ease your baby’s teething pain and what to do as each tooth erupts.

They can also teach you how to take care of babies’ teeth, including when to get an infant toothbrush, the right time to use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, and preventing dental problems like tooth decay.

If you’re interested in using homeopathic teething products for your child’s teeth, it’s a good idea to check with them as well.

FAQs

Do babies eat less when they get their baby teeth?

Yes, it’s very common for babies to eat less simply because their gums are swollen and sensitive.

Do babies poop more when teething?

No, babies don’t poop more when teething. This is a common myth.

According to pediatric dentistry experts, what does happen is that when a baby is teething, it coincides with major developments. For instance, they may start eating solid food, which can, in turn, lead to changes in their bathroom habits.

Do babies sleep a lot when teething?

Some babies do sleep more when teething, but it’s usually because the discomfort makes them tired out from fussing or general crankiness.

It could also be that they don’t get a lot of sleep at night due to the fussiness associated with teething—in this case, babies make up for it with daytime napping.

Do babies throw up when teething?

No, teething does not cause babies to throw up. There is no evidence to support the idea that teething can make children vomit.

However, it’s worth remembering that teething can cause symptoms like drooling, and once that drool causes irritation in the mouth, it could trigger the gag reflex.

If your baby is throwing up more than usual, talk to their pediatrician.

Can Tylenol relieve a baby’s gums during teething?

Yes, Tylenol can help with teething.

Still, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you try alternatives to painkillers before giving your baby any medicine.

If you’re going to use Tylenol for teething pain, consult with your child’s pediatrician about how much to give and how often.

Is drooling a sign of teething?

Yes, drooling is part of teething symptoms, but it’s also normal infant behavior. Look for other signs as well, including fussiness, gum-rubbing, and biting on toys or fingers.

If you notice these behaviors in addition to drooling, your baby is most likely teething.

Related Read: When Do Babies Stop Drooling | Drooling Questions Answered

How to treat a runny nose during teething?

Runny noses are perfectly normal as your baby’s teeth come in. The eruption of a baby’s teeth irritates the gums and the body’s immune system produces extra mucus in response.

Use a clean tissue or soft cloth to wipe their nose several times a day. You can also use saline drops and a bulb syringe to relieve any difficulty breathing.

Wrapping It Up

Teething is a natural process that all babies go through. Knowing what to expect can help make the experience less stressful not just for your baby, but for you as well.

Has my baby started teething? the signs to look out for | Baby & toddler articles & support

Teething signs can be confusing, and you’ll hear so many myths. Here we explore what teething is exactly and the signs you’ll see.

Teething happens at the same time as babies are vulnerable to illnesses and ailments as their immune system develops (Simon et al, 2015). This has led to confusion around what’s a sign of teething, and what’s not. Not just among parents but also some healthcare professionals (Plutzer et al, 2012; Eisenstadt et al, 2017).

This article sets out the signs and symptoms widely agreed to be caused by teething. It also flags up signs and symptoms not caused by teething that you’ll need to go and see your doctor about.

But first, the basics: What exactly is teething?

Teething is usually defined as when your baby’s teeth start to emerge through their gums (NHS, 2019). Their teeth were always there, within the jawbones, when they were born (Lyttle et al, 2015; NICE, 2020).

“Some babies are born with their first teeth. Others start teething before they are four months old, and some after 12 months. But most babies start teething at around six months (NHS, 2019).”

Your baby’s complete set of first teeth is usually on show by the time they’re three years old (NICE, 2020). These are often known as baby teeth or milk teeth, though the medical term is deciduous teeth because they will later fall out (NICE, 2020).

Even though your baby’s first teeth will fall out, they are very important for your baby’s health. This is because they help your child with eating solids and speech development, as well as self-esteem (Waite, 2019).

For a full guide to which teeth appear and when, see our month-by-month teething article.

Teething: What are the signs?

A baby’s teeth sometimes appear with no pain or discomfort at all (NHS, 2019). But others experience a constant, dull pain that gets increasingly intense in the four days before a tooth can be seen, before improving rapidly (Lyttle et al, 2015).

Your baby can’t use words to say they are in pain but you might see some pretty obvious signs there is a tooth on its way. The signs widely agreed to be sure indicators of teething include:

drool, and lots of it – teething babies can dribble way more than usual
them biting and gumming down on anything and everything – that’s because the gnawing and chewing provides them with relief
them being more grumpy, distressed and irritable than usual
sore and red gums
a loss of appetite.

(Lyttle et al, 2015; Eisenstadt et al, 2017; NHS, 2019)

Other symptoms that might be signs of teething (although there is some debate over these) include:

gum-rubbing
sucking
wakefulness
ear-rubbing
facial rash
a runny nose
a mildly-raised temperature, but still under 38°C, might also be a sign.

(Eisenstadt et al, 2017; NICE, 2020)

Your baby might be showing one of these signs or symptoms, or all of them. As with everything baby related, no two little ones are the same (Lyttle et al, 2015). In fact, teething signs can be so wide ranging, and vary so much from baby to baby that only one third of teething infants would experience any one of the signs above (Macknin et al, 2000).

Some studies go as far as to say none of these symptoms can be proven to be a sign of teething. They suggest the only way to know if your baby is teething is to examine their mouth – looking and feeling for an emerging tooth (Tighe and Roe, 2007).

Try laying your baby on your lap and sneaking a peek inside their mouth by moving their top or bottom lip or gently coaxing open their jaw. Use a clean finger to gently feel around their upper and lower gums systematically, one potential tooth spot at a time.

Is my baby teething or sick?

What’s not teething?

Other signs and symptoms that studies have found are generally NOT linked with teething include:

congestion and coughs
sleep disturbance
runny poos, increased number of poos and nappy rash associated with them
less interest or appetite for liquids
rashes other than facial rashes
fever over 38°C
vomiting.

(Eisenstadt et al, 2017; NICE, 2020)

It’s important you don’t assume one of these is a sign of teething. It could be something more serious and require medical attention.

Don’t confuse illness with teething

A fever and other clinically important symptoms, like diarrhoea, vomiting and rashes are very unlikely to be caused by teething, so make sure you talk to your GP or call NHS 111 (Tighe and Roe, 2007).

One study looked at 50 babies admitted to hospital with various conditions which the parents mistook for teething. In 48 of these children, a medical condition other than teething was identified, including a case of bacterial meningitis (Tighe and Roe, 2007).

Right, I’ve established my baby is teething. Now what?

You can read our articles on how to ease the pain associated with teething, and top tips proven to work.

It is also important to look after yourself, as your baby’s upset is likely to be stressful. You might feel exhausted too, as they’ll require even more of your attention. Our keeping calm with a crying baby article has some useful techniques you can try to keep your stress levels down.

This page was last reviewed in July 2022.

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby: 0300 330 0700.

You might find attending one of NCT’s Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.

Read more about fever in children from the NHS.

For more information on what other illnesses may be causing their fever, this article from NICE is very useful.

If you are concerned, contact your GP or call NHS 111 where you can access urgent medical help fast.

NCT has partnered with the British Red Cross to offer courses in baby first aid.

References

Eisenstadt M, Malkiel S, Pollak U. (2017) It’s alright, ma (I’m only teething…) dispelling the myth from the teeth. Acad J Ped Neonatol. 3(4):555618. Available at: https://juniperpublishers.com/ajpn/pdf/AJPN.MS.ID.555618.pdf [Accessed 23rd July 2022]

Lyttle C, Stoops F, Welbury R, Wilson N. (2015) Tooth eruption and teething in children. Pharm J. 295:7883. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1211/PJ.2015.20069598

Macknin ML, Piedmonte M, Jacobs J, Skibinski C. (2000) Symptoms associated with infant teething: a prospective study. Pediatrics. 105:747-752. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.105.4.747

NHS. (2019) Baby teething symptoms. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/babys-development/teething/baby-teet… [Accessed 23rd July 2022]

NICE. (2020) Teething. Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/teething/#!diagnosissub:1 [Accessed 23rd July 2022]

Plutzer K, Spencer AJ, Keirse MJ. (2012) How first-time mothers perceive and deal with teething symptoms: a randomized controlled trial. Child Care Health Dev. 38(2):292-299. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2214.2011.01215.x

Simon AK, Hollander GA, McMichael A. (2015) Evolution of the immune system in humans from infancy to old age. Proc Biol Sci. 282(1821):20143085. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2014.3085

Tighe M, Roe MFE. (2007) Does a teething child need serious illness excluding? Arch Dis Child. 92(3):266-268. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1136/adc.2006.110114

Waite C. (2019) Do baby teeth matter? Available at: https://bda.org/news-centre/blog/do-baby-teeth-matter [Accessed 28th September 2022]

How to help a baby when he is teething

Ekaterina Borisovna Bulavina

pediatrician of the 1st category

Teeth break through – it even sounds painful. Indeed, when a baby starts teething, it often turns out to be painful. Many children do not sleep well, often cry, some even have a fever. But there are other symptoms that indicate that your baby is going through the period of the appearance of milk teeth.

— Ekaterina Borisovna, please tell us when babies usually start teething?

– Teething times are quite variable. On average, the first teeth come out at 5-7 months, but the process can begin earlier (both at two and at four months) or take up to a year. Some babies are born with teeth already. Everything is very individual and depends on many factors, such as heredity, sufficient intake of calcium in the body, the sex of the child, the climate in the place of residence.

– How fast will teeth cut after the first one appears?

– In both boys and girls, the process of complete eruption of the milk bite usually drags on for 2.5-3 years. The upper incisors appear 2–3 months after the appearance of the lower ones, then at the age of 9–13 months, the upper and lower lateral incisors erupt. From a year to a year and a half, the upper and lower first molars alternately appear, then, by 20 months, the upper and lower canines, by 2-2.5 years, the second molars. However, the sequence and timing of when babies begin to cut their teeth are very arbitrary.

Table and diagram by month: what time do children start teething

– How to understand that a child is teething?

— The appearance of teeth, although physiological, is a real test for a child and his mom and dad. Only recently they experienced colic, a feeding and sleeping regime was established, when suddenly the baby again becomes restless, naughty, refuses to eat, or, conversely, often and greedily grabs a breast or a bottle, sleeps poorly and pulls everything into his mouth. These are sure signs of the beginning of teething.

Some lucky people endure the whole process completely painlessly, and only an occasional tapping of the gum with a spoon reveals the first tooth that has already erupted. But sometimes the moment of teething is so difficult for the baby that it is easy to confuse it with the onset of the disease.

Only a doctor can determine the real cause of the child’s anxiety, and you should definitely contact him if the temperature rises to febrile numbers, severe lethargy, weakness, or, conversely, the baby’s strong excitability, as well as when signs of infection are attached, such as a runny nose, cough, disorders digestion, vomiting, loose stools.

— Ekaterina Borisovna, parents are waiting for the appearance of the first incisors with caution. What symptoms characterize the process in addition to pain discomfort?

– When teeth are being cut, the symptoms are very varied, and everyone is individual. In this case, the symptoms, depending on the location of the cutting teeth, may differ. Usually the most unpleasant sensations accompany the appearance of only the first teeth. All subsequent ones erupt more calmly, and the child practically ceases to pay attention to this process. With the appearance of chewing teeth, pain may resume, but they are not as intense as at the very beginning of eruption. The appearance of the upper teeth is often accompanied by a runny nose: this is due to the proximity of the location and a single network of blood supply to the upper jaw and nasal cavity.

— When is it better to bring down the temperature during teething?

– Antipyretic therapy is usually prescribed when the temperature rises above 38.5 degrees. Subfebrile temperature, up to 38 degrees, should always be brought down in children with organic damage to the central nervous system, with the threat of convulsions, as well as with pronounced changes in the general condition of the child.

— Why should a child’s health be closely monitored during teething? Does teething affect the immune system?

— Teething is a rather complex process involving all systems of the child’s body. The immune system is no exception. At the moment of tooth movement, a traumatic lesion of the gums occurs and, as a result, inflammation occurs in the tissues. Immune cells rush to the inflammatory focus, trying to eliminate it, which somewhat weakens the local protective reaction. In addition, the content of the enzyme lysozyme is reduced in abundant saliva, and it loses its protective properties. In addition, during this period, the child pulls everything into his mouth, trying to scratch itchy gums, which increases the risk of infection and injury to the mucous membrane.

— How can parents tell teething from other problems like a cold?

— Distinguishing a viral infection from teething syndrome is sometimes difficult even for a specialist: very often the two conditions occur at the same time. With eruption syndrome, the temperature rarely exceeds 38-38.5 degrees, discharge from the nose is abundant, mucous in nature, often transparent. Cough superficial, occurs more often in a horizontal position. All symptoms are accompanied by profuse salivation. The general condition of the child rarely worsens, the child is capricious, whiny, but not lethargic or apathetic.

Teething may also be accompanied by symptoms of dyspepsia such as regurgitation and sometimes even vomiting, loose stools. Unlike an intestinal infection, regurgitation and vomiting are episodic and occur when saliva is abundant.

Fluid stools may be associated with increased motility due to fever – ingestion of large amounts of saliva and intense chewing movements. Stool 1-2 times a day, normal color and smell, without pathological impurities, but softer consistency.

In the event of any symptoms that do not fit into the picture of teething, you should definitely consult a doctor.

— Does teething pain occur in all children?

— Each child has his own pain threshold. The intensity of inflammatory reactions is also different for everyone, so each baby experiences teething in its own way. If one will continuously cry all night, then the other may behave in a completely normal way. It depends on both genetics and the temperament of the baby.

— When teeth are being cut, how can you help a baby? What drugs are allowed to be given to relieve pain?

– Pain relief gels are widely used. However, you should remember the rules for their use. They have a short effect, about 20-30 minutes, but it is not recommended to use them more than five times a day. The gel is applied in a thin layer to avoid an overdose of the drug. And, as in the case of any medicine, do not forget about the possible allergic reaction in the baby.

Only anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain quickly and permanently. And there is a lot of BUT here. Any drug is not safe, especially if it is given for the first time. Only a doctor can assess the child’s condition and prescribe anti-inflammatory therapy if necessary, taking into account the risk-benefit ratio.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be given by mouth. The dosage is calculated by the doctor depending on the weight of the child. On the mucosa, gels with local anesthetic and antiseptic effects are used.

— Can folk remedies relieve pain and other symptoms?

— Treatment with folk remedies in our country is very popular, although the world scientific community questions its effectiveness. Only the effect of cold has proven effectiveness, therefore it is recommended to give the child chilled pacifiers and teethers to gnaw. Cold causes vasospasm, reduces swelling and inflammation in the gums, and, as a result, pain temporarily subsides. The effect is short-lived, but still there. It is also useful to massage the gums with a fingertip or a soft brush.

— Ekaterina Borisovna, tell us more about how nipples or chewable toys help with toothache, and how to choose a pacifier and a special teether for a child.

— Gum massage helps baby cope with discomfort. During the massage, itching decreases, the gum tissue softens, and it is easier for the tooth to make its way. But constantly massaging a child’s gums is a very tedious task. He may well engage in self-massage, especially since during this period he himself with pleasure pulls everything into his mouth.

Special pacifiers or teethers will be excellent massage assistants. They differ from ordinary nipples in greater rigidity and a relief surface; they are made of latex or silicone. Many models of teethers are supplemented with a cooling function – inside contains a liquid that can be cooled. Teethers are also made of plastic, wood or even textiles. But, in my opinion, they do not meet safety standards. It is worth choosing brands that have long been widely represented on the children’s goods market.

— What techniques can be used to distract a child from a toothache?

– In this case, there is only one method – to surround the baby with care and attention as much as possible, to take him in your arms more often, to put him on the chest if the child asks. Next to the parents, the baby feels safe, calms down. Children are very sensitive to the behavior and emotions of adults, so it is important for parents to be calm and friendly, to distract the kids with toys, songs, affectionate words. Older children can play finger games. Relaxing massages and long walks are helpful.

Unfortunately, absolutely effective methods do not exist. Parents can only help the baby cope with the problem. But there are a few tips that will help you get through this difficult period.

– Please share them with our readers.

– The rudiments of teeth are laid long before birth. Therefore, a mother during pregnancy should carefully monitor her diet. Sufficient intake of calcium is especially important for the formation of healthy teeth in the baby. But even after birth, calcium should not be forgotten. When breastfeeding, the mother’s diet should contain dairy products or calcium supplements in case of intolerance to cow’s milk proteins by the baby.

Hardening from birth is a guarantee of good immunity. No need to wrap the child in a hundred clothes and be afraid to air the rooms. Walk in any weather and long enough, use a light contrast shower. And then no cold is terrible for the baby.

Also avoid public places, especially during teething. The baby is very vulnerable at this moment. Postpone visits from relatives, shopping trips and visits to indoor playgrounds for a while – thereby reducing the risk of infection of the child.

It is also especially important during this period to maintain the optimum temperature in the room. Heat and dry air will only increase discomfort.

Teething is a difficult stage in a child’s life. If the process causes severe discomfort, is accompanied by the appearance of alarming symptoms, high temperature, then you should contact a specialist for help as soon as possible. For the rest, surround the baby with care and attention, pick up nipples, teethers, toys that relieve itching, use medications with the permission of the doctor. The main thing during this period is to be there and help the baby in every possible way to cope with the pain.

* Breast milk is the best food for babies. WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a child’s life and continued breastfeeding after complementary foods are introduced until the age of 2 years. Before introducing new products into the baby’s diet, you should consult with a specialist. The material is for informational purposes and cannot replace the advice of a healthcare professional. For feeding children from birth.

#Tips for Mom

How to understand that a child is teething

The appearance of a baby is not only a great joy for parents, but also new worries. The child grows quickly, and now his first teeth begin to cut. This is a difficult period for both the baby and his parents. The support of relatives, a positive attitude and the attention of adults will help to make it as pleasant and comfortable as possible.

Interestingly, the formation of teeth in infants occurs while still in the womb. When a baby is born, 20 dental units are already laid in his gums. Each newborn develops individually. This also applies to teeth. Eruption begins at about 3-6 months. During this period, the baby becomes restless, naughty a lot, cries, suffers from diarrhea and fever.

Symptoms that the child is teething

It all starts with profuse salivation. The kid gnaws on toys, fingers of parents and everything that comes to hand. Then the following symptoms appear:

Gum swelling. The tooth begins to erupt, and the structure of the muscle tissue changes. At this time, the mucosa slightly increases in size, the gum becomes red. The closer to the surface of the tooth, the more noticeable the spot on the gum becomes.
Runny nose. The mucous membrane in the nose begins to secrete more mucus. At this time, it is important to constantly rinse the child’s nose, give him plenty of water, and humidify the air in the children’s room.
Sleep problems. Due to pain, the baby may not sleep well, often wake up with tears.
Decreased appetite. During this difficult period, some babies may eat worse or refuse to eat at all. Because of the pain and discomfort in the gums, the child will not enjoy eating. Don’t worry, your appetite will return as soon as the pain subsides.
Tears. Due to unpleasant and painful sensations, the baby is more often naughty, crying.
Wet cough. Due to abundant salivation, liquid enters the respiratory tract, mucus accumulates, which the baby tries to cough up.
Diarrhea. The child swallows a large amount of saliva, due to which the stool becomes liquid.
Increased body temperature. Due to the fact that the child is teething, the surface of the gums becomes inflamed. The body produces a protective reaction in the form of increased temperature.

It is normal for babies under 1 year of age to have their first teeth. However, the first symptoms may resemble the onset of a disease. Pain, heat and discomfort are associated with the fact that the tooth must break through the bone and gum.

Things to watch out for

Baby’s teething can bring infection. If you notice the following symptoms, you should immediately take the child to a specialist:

Severe cough with a lot of sputum, shortness of breath and wheezing.
The baby has a very severe runny nose, greenish or cloudy white mucus is discharged from the nose. If this process lasts more than 3 days, you should consult a doctor.
High temperature persists for more than 2 days (at or above 39degrees), is not knocked down by antipyretics.
Frequent diarrhea with blood and mucus.
Constipation for more than 3 days.

Your baby’s immune system is weakened during teething. At this time, it is necessary to protect him as much as possible from possible diseases, to postpone vaccinations. For any anxiety or discomfort, it is best to consult a pediatrician.

Teething diagram for children

The two central incisors in the bottom row erupt first, either in pairs or one after the other. Then – the incisors in the center of the top row. The next to appear are two lower and upper side ones. Babies from 1 year old most often already have four front teeth in both rows.

After the incisors, canines and other dental units begin to appear. By about three years old, a baby should have about 20 teeth, including incisors, molars, and canines. However, this process is different for every child. 20 teeth can be in a two-year-old child.

Teeth begin to erupt at 3-8 months. If the first appeared later, then the loss will begin later than in other children. By the age of 1, a child must have at least one tooth. If this does not happen, then the baby should be sent for examination. Specialists can detect rickets, hyperthyroidism and other diseases.

How to help your child when teething

There are many ways to help relieve pain during such a difficult period.

Distraction. Buy your baby new toys, take him to a new playground, or put on some music. The child will switch his attention and forget about the pain for a while.
Teethers. In stores, you can find many toys and rodent rattles that will help relieve itching and pain from the gums.
Teaching gel. Before use, be sure to consult a specialist and strictly follow the instructions. Dental gels can be used no more than 5-6 times a day. They have the effect of mild anesthesia, so a violation of the regimen of use can lead to intoxication of the baby’s body, impaired digestion and breathing.