For many parents, seeing their baby’s first teeth come out is a moment to be celebrated. However, for babies, it can cause discomfort and irritability.
As a parent, it's essential to understand the signs of teething and learn how to help your baby cope with this natural process. In this article, we’ll be talking about what you can do when your baby is teething and provide some practical tips to ease their discomfort.
Understanding teething
Image by crystalsing
Teething typically begins around six months of age, although it can start as early as three months or as late as one year. During this time, your baby's first set of teeth, usually the lower front teeth (incisors), will begin to push through their gum tissue. This process can be uncomfortable, leading to several common symptoms:
- Irritability: Your baby may become fussier than usual due to the discomfort in their gums.
- Excessive drooling: Teething often stimulates saliva production, causing drooling and sometimes a rash around the mouth.
- Gum swelling and sensitivity: Your baby's gums may appear red and swollen, and they might experience pain when chewing or sucking.
- Chewing and biting: Babies often gnaw on objects or their fingers to relieve the pressure on their gums.
What can I do to help?
While you can't completely eliminate your baby's teething discomfort, there are a few ways you can employ to make this phase more manageable:
1. Teething toys
Invest in teething toys made of safe, non-toxic materials. Chewing on these toys can help relieve the pressure on your baby's gums. Ensure the toys are age-appropriate and easy for your baby to hold.
For added relief, some parents may refrigerate their baby’s teething toys. The cold can help numb the gums and reduce inflammation.
2. Teething rings
Likewise, you can get teething rings for your baby. Silicone or rubber teething rings are popular choices, and they are safe to chew on.
Image by joaquincorbalan
3. Gentle gum massage
Use a clean finger or a moistened gauze pad to gently massage your baby's gums. This can provide soothing relief.
4. Pain relief gels
Consult your pediatrician before using any over-the-counter teething gels or medications. If recommended, use them sparingly and strictly according to the instructions.
Image by yanadjana
5. Comfort food
Offer your baby cold and soft foods, such as yogurt or mashed bananas. The coolness can provide relief, and the textures can be soothing.
6. Distraction
Engage your baby in playful activities and provide extra cuddles during this time. Sometimes, a distraction can help reduce their focus on teething discomfort.
Image by Iakobchuk
7. Maintain good oral hygiene
Even before the first tooth emerges, gently clean your baby's gums with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush to establish good oral hygiene habits.
8. Consult your pediatrician
If your baby's teething symptoms seem severe, consult your pediatrician for guidance. They can rule out other potential issues and provide additional advice.
Image by insta_photos
Teething is a natural and sometimes uncomfortable phase in your baby's development. While it can be challenging for both parents and infants, understanding the symptoms and employing these practical strategies can help make them feel more comfortable during this time.
