Baby teething guide - What to expect and how to help your baby through it?

Teething is an exciting yet challenging milestone for both babies and parents. For babies, it marks the beginning of their journey toward developing a complete set of teeth. It can be confusing and sometimes stressful for parents as their little one goes through various discomforts.

In this comprehensive baby teething guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the teething process, signs and symptoms, how to soothe your baby, and tips for healthy dental development.

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Most babies begin teething around 6 months, though it can start as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. Every baby is different, so the timing varies from child to child. By age 3, most children will have their complete set of 20 baby teeth.

Teething Timeline:

• 6 to 10 months: Lower central incisors (bottom front teeth)
• 8 to 12 months: Upper central incisors (top front teeth)
• 9 to 13 months: Upper lateral incisors (next to the front teeth)
• 10 to 16 months: Lower lateral incisors
• 13 to 19 months: First molars
• 16 to 23 months: Canine teeth (next to the lateral incisors)
• 23 to 33 months: Second molars

Signs and Symptoms of Teething

Teething can affect babies in different ways. Some babies may show little to no discomfort, while others may experience more apparent symptoms.

Common signs of teething include:

• Drooling: Excessive drooling is one of the earliest signs of teething. The increased saliva helps soothe the gums as the teeth break through.
• Chewing and biting: Babies may begin chewing on toys, fingers, or anything they can get into their mouths to help relieve pressure on their gums.
• Irritability and fussiness: Teething can cause discomfort, leading to more crying or fussiness than usual.
• Swollen or tender gums: You may notice redness or swelling in the area where the tooth is about to erupt.
• Sleep disturbances: Teething pain can interfere with a baby’s sleep, causing them to wake up more often at night.
• Decreased appetite: Some babies may refuse food or drinks due to gum discomfort and excellent foods.
• Rubbing ears or cheeks: Since the nerves in the gums, ears, and cheeks are connected, babies may rub their ears or cheeks to alleviate the discomfort.

Myth vs. Reality:

Fever and diarrhoea: While many parents report fever or diarrhoea during teething, most paediatricians agree that these symptoms are not directly caused by teething. If your baby has a high fever (above 100.4°F) or is experiencing severe diarrhoea or vomiting, consult your paediatrician as it may indicate an unrelated illness.

How to Soothe a Teething Baby

There are several ways to help soothe your baby’s discomfort during teething. Here are some effective methods:

• Teething toys: Teething rings or toys can provide relief by giving your baby something to chew on. Choose ones that are made of soft, BPA-free materials. Some teething toys can be chilled in the refrigerator (not the freezer) for extra soothing.
• Cold washcloth: A clean, cold washcloth can soothe sore gums. Wet a washcloth, twist it, and place it in the refrigerator before giving it to your baby to chew on.
• Cold foods: If your baby eats solids, you can offer cold, soft foods such as chilled applesauce, yogurt, or a frozen fruit puree. Always supervise your baby while they’re eating to avoid choking.
• Teething gels: Over-the-counter or tablets are available, but be cautious. Some gels contain benzocaine, which is not recommended for children under 2 years old due to potential side effects. Always consult your paediatrician before using any medications.
• Massage the gums: Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can provide relief. The gentle pressure can help ease the pain of erupting teeth.
• Pain relief medication: If your baby is particularly uncomfortable, consider giving the infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (for babies over 6 months). Be sure to follow the correct dosage instructions and consult your paediatrician first.

Maintaining Healthy Baby Teeth

Even though baby teeth are temporary, they are essential to your child’s development. They help babies chew, speak, and maintain space for their permanent teeth to grow correctly.

Here are some tips for maintaining healthy baby teeth:

• Start brushing early: When your baby’s first tooth appears, brush twice daily with a soft, small toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. At this stage, use only a grain-of-rice-sized amount of toothpaste.
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks: Limit your baby’s intake of sugary foods and beverages, which can lead to cavities. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle, as prolonged exposure to milk or juice can cause tooth decay (also known as baby bottle tooth decay).
• Dental checkups: Schedule your baby’s first dental checkup around their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing. Regular dental visits will help catch potential issues early on and set your baby to healthy teeth.
• Fluoride: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. Your dentist or paediatrician may recommend fluoride supplements or toothpaste depending on your baby’s needs and local water supply.

Teething Myths and Facts

Several myths surround teething, and it’s important to separate fact from fiction to ensure you’re properly caring for your baby.

1. Myth: Teething causes a high fever. Fact: Teething may cause a slight increase in temperature, but it doesn’t cause a high fever. If your baby has a fever above 100.4°F, it’s best to consult a doctor.
2. Myth: Rubbing alcohol on the gums helps with teething pain. Fact: Rubbing alcohol is harmful to babies and should never be used to soothe teething pain.
3. Myth: Baby teeth don’t matter because they fall out. Fact: Baby teeth are essential for proper chewing, speech development, and keeping space for adult teeth. Neglecting baby teeth can lead to long-term dental issues.

When to See a Doctor

While teething is a normal part of development, specific symptoms may warrant a call to the paediatrician.

Contact your doctor if your baby:

• Has a fever above 100.4°F
• Is unusually irritable for extended periods
• Is not eating or drinking for more than a day
• Has diarrhoea or vomiting

These could be signs of something more severe than teething and should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Suggested reading: Best baby toothbrush at babyfair

Conclusion

Teething is a natural part of your baby’s growth and development, and while it can be a challenging time, there are plenty of ways to help your baby through it. By recognising the signs and symptoms of teething, knowing how to soothe discomfort, and maintaining healthy dental practices, you can ensure your baby’s journey is as smooth as possible.

Always consult your paediatrician or dentist for concerns or questions about your baby’s teething guide.

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