As parents, you get to experience so many significant milestones, that first smile, first giggle, and first tiny tooth. Unfortunately, teething can be an uncomfortable, drooling, and cranky mess. Not sure how to help your child? Try these tips to ease your little one’s distress. 

How Do You Know if Your Baby Is Teething?

Teething usually begins when your baby is 4-7 months old, with the two bottom front teeth typically erupting first, followed by the two upper front teeth. Most toddlers have their complete set of baby teeth by age 3. Signs that those pearly whites are getting ready to make an appearance include tiny bumps on your baby’s gums. 

Signs and symptoms of teething may differ from child to child. They include red, swollen, and tender gums, along with excessive drooling, fussiness, and irritability. Your child may want to chew on hard objects, may not eat well, and may have trouble sleeping. Some babies have slight temperature increases but no fever. 

Teething is often uncomfortable but should never cause illness. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, high fever, cough, or rash are not signs of teething. If your child shows any of these symptoms or if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting your pediatrician for a consultation. 

How Can You Help Make Your Child’s Teething Experience Easier?

The following are some ways you can help ease your baby’s discomfort:

• Massage The Gums: Massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or wet washcloth. Place mild pressure, gently rubbing those sore areas to offer some relief.
• Refrigerate a Pacifier or Teething Ring: Offer a chilled but not frozen pacifier or teething ring. That helps soothe your little one’s gums and ease the pain. 
• Provide Healthy Teething Treats: Teething babies love to chew, so consider providing unsweetened teething crackers for comfort. Always consult with your child’s pediatrician before starting solids or introducing teething crackers. 
• Serve Chilled Purees: Chilled pureed foods can help calm and soothe your little one’s gums. You may want to try offering some before every meal to dull the discomfort and encourage your child to eat. 
• Try Teething Gels or Drops: Teething gels or drops can help soothe those swollen and sore gums. Make sure you consult with your baby’s pediatrician before starting any teething gels or drops.  
• Keep Your Baby’s Face Dry: Gently dry the constant stream of drool that comes with teething to prevent skin irritation. The last thing you need to deal with is another source of discomfort. 
• Offer Extra Snuggles: The best thing you can do for your little one is to offer plenty of cuddles and snuggles. If you’re nursing, you may want to nurse more than usual for an added sense of comfort. 

If all else fails, talk to your child’s pediatrician or pediatric dentist about pain medication to relieve your little one’s discomfort. 

What Teething Remedies Should You Avoid?

It’s important to ensure your baby is safe while battling the teething blues. Steer away from over-the-counter homeopathic remedies and teething medications with benzocaine or lidocaine because these may all harm your little one. Moreover, avoid teething necklaces, bracelets, or anklets because of the risk of choking, strangulation, or injury. 

Quality Pediatric Dentistry in Glendale, AZ

Contact Smile Explorers Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about helping your baby have an easier teething experience. Our child-friendly team looks forward to supporting your little one’s oral health every step of the way. Call us and schedule your appointment today!