While teething (the time when your little one’s first teeth come through the gums) is painless for some kids, it can cause irritability in others and make them crankier than the normal. This is because teething is uncomfortable and can make the gums tender or painful. It may also cause a few other symptoms like lack of appetite, drooling, and disrupted sleep.
Tender and sore gums can also slightly raise your little’s one’s temperature but do take note that teething does not necessarily cause fever or diarrhea. If your child develops fever during the teething phase, s/he is probably sick. It is best to call a doctor if your baby has a fever, along with other symptoms like rashes or diarrhea.
Soothing your baby
There some things you can do to make teething a lot easier. Dentists for children in Utah share some tips to keep in mind:
- Wipe/rub your baby’s gums. Use a wet gauze pad or a clean finger and gently rub your baby’s gums. The pressure on their gums can offer some sort of distraction, which can then ease the sensation of teething pain.
- Use cold compresses. A cool spoon or a cold washcloth can help soothe tender and swollen gums. You can also give your baby a cold teething ring that is chilled in the fridge but not in the freezer. Frozen or hard teethers can damage your child’s gums.
- Try teething biscuits/hard foods. These, along with cold or frozen foods, are only for children who are already eating solid foods. Just be sure to watch and monitor your baby, as food pieces that break off can pose a choking hazard.
- Wipe the drool. Drooling is one side effect of teething. Use a soft and gentle cloth to clean your baby’s face and remove the drool. This can help prevent rashes and skin irritation. You can also apply an unscented or a water-based cream or lotion on your baby’s skin.
- Give them something to chew on. Rubber teething rings are a good choice, but it is best to avoid liquid-filled ones, as they could leak or break. Also, make sure that it is big enough, as those with smaller parts (like beads or other decorations) pose choking hazard. Check out this post for teething ring safety tips.
- Ask your doctor about painkillers. If you’re thinking of giving your baby painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, ask your doctor first if it is safe to do so. Be sure not to use aspirin or rub it in their gums.
Take care of your child’s teeth
Here a few care and cleaning tips for your baby’s teeth:
- Even before your little one’s tooth erupt, dental care is important. Use a damp gauze or washcloth and wipe your baby’s gums every day. You should also do the same thing as soon as their first teeth come in.
- Kids around age two or three can use a tiny amount of toothpaste when brushing. Be sure not to let your kids swallow the toothpaste; encourage them to spit it out, but not rinse.
- When all your baby’s teeth appear, brush them at least twice a day. You can then start with flossing as soon as two teeth touch. You can ask your dentist for flossing tips.
- Prevent tooth decay by not letting your child fall asleep with a bottle filled with milk, juice, or any other sweetened beverage. The sugars in the drink can stick to the teeth and cause plaque or decay.
Keep these things in mind to ease teething pain and take care of your child’s oral health. You should visit a dentist by the time they turn one year old or within six months after their first tooth comes in. This is to detect any problem and learn more about dental care.
