Sometimes your little bundle of joy won’t be so joyful. Teething is a prime example of when your baby will be experiencing discomfort, which they will surely let you know. As a parent, it’s important you know the symptoms, timeline and remedies that can help your little one get through the teething process so they can healthily develop their new teeth and gnaw on whatever they want without too much pain.
Teething Symptoms
When your infant is teething, you will probably know! Babies typically vocalizing their discomfort and try to chew on everything they can get their hands on. There are a few common indicators to look out for in your baby that are common signs that they are beginning to teeth.
- Irritability
- Crankiness
- Change in appetite (appetite loss)
- Excessive drooling
- Sleeping changes and problems
Teething Time Frame
Babies get different teeth at different times, so knowing what to expect can help you address your child’s symptoms in the most effective way possible, while also not being caught off guard by changes in your little one’s behavior.
- 6 months: Lower Central Incisors
- 8 months: Upper Central Incisors
- 10 months: Lower and Upper Lateral Incisors
- 14 months: First Molars
- 18 months: Canines
- 24 months: Second Molars
Knowing this time frame can help you communicate more effectively with your baby’s doctor and address the needs of your child in a more efficient manner. It’s important to keep an open line of communication with your chosen pediatrician and a dental health professional early on to ensure your baby develops their teeth without issue. Remember, your child’s first dental visit should take place shortly after their first tooth appears, and no later than their first birthday.
Teething Remedies
The American Dental Association recommends rubbing on a baby’s gums with a clean finger, small cold spoon or a moist gauze pad to soothe pain from incoming teeth. They also suggest using solid rubber teethers for your child, as teethers filled with liquid or plastic objects could break, causing harm to a baby.
They also advise against using benzocaine products, including numbing gels and teething tablets, due to health hazards that can result from their use.
The Final Word
Communicating with a dentist and pediatrician during teething is an important step toward keeping your baby happy and healthy. Any questions should be directed toward these two professionals, as they will be able to point you in the right direction regarding your child’s teething experience.
