If your child’s teeth are finally starting to make their appearance from beneath the gum line, you’re probably feeling pretty excited to see your little one reach this big milestone! However, the associated discomfort they’re likely enduring due to teething might also be tugging at your heartstrings—and you might be wondering if there’s anything you can do to help them out. Here’s a closer look from your trusted pediatric dentist at the teething process and some of the common symptoms that accompany it, along with what you can do to help soothe your child’s aching smile.
A Closer Look at the Teething Process
Generally speaking, teething describes the process that occurs when a child’s first set of teeth starts to come through their gum line. Most babies begin to teethe between 4 and 7 months of age, but some start sooner or much later—there’s no “definite” starting or ending point, and it varies from child to child.
Obvious Signs Your Child Is Teething
Every child experiences the teething process differently—however, several common symptoms usually indicate it’s occurring. Your child might be teething if you notice them:
- Drooling due to an overproduction of saliva, which can even cause facial rashes.
- Coughing due to the excess amount of spit inside the mouth.
- Rubbing their cheeks or tugging their ears.
- Feeling extra irritable due to gum inflammation and tenderness.
- Refusing to eat or nurse.
- Unable to sleep as usual.
- Feeling generally irritable or cranky.
Teething is painful for many children, but it shouldn’t make your child outright sick. If you notice symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, fever, bleeding or other serious concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s pediatric dentist at once.
Tips for Soothing Your Child’s Discomfort During Teething
Luckily, you can do quite a few things for your little one to help ease their discomfort as they’re teething! Consider these tips:
- Give your child a teething toy; these are designed to provide soothing counterpressure to your child’s aching gums. They’re generally made from materials like soft plastic, silicone or rubber.
- You can also apply something cold to your child’s inflamed gums, like a wet washcloth or refrigerated teething toy. Just be sure to not give them anything frozen, as this might hurt their mouth. Even cold water from a sippy cup can do the trick!
- Provide plenty of soft foods for your little one, like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes and other similar items. You can also serve these items chilled for added relief.
- Pain relievers can also be used as long as they’re safe for infants; be sure to steer clear of numbing agents or over-the-counter topicals.
About Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re excited to offer families in the Randolph, MA community an exceptional level of care, with a wide variety of services aimed at assisting young smiles! If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule a visit for your child, feel free to contact us online or over the phone for further information or assistance! Telephone: (781) 218-7342.