When raising a baby, most know the important milestones their child will experience. There’s the first crawl, the first steps, the first solid food, etc. But a vital development often gets overlooked amid the others: the teething process. After all, parents must know how to react once their kids start getting their first “baby” teeth.
For those wanting to be prepared when the time comes, here’s a summary of three common teething signs and some ways to ease the little one’s discomfort.
At What Age Do Babies Teethe?
As it turns out, the first tooth’s eruption can vary from baby to baby. Some get them at three or four months old, while others don’t see the first tooth until around or after their first birthday. Still, most infants will have it by the time they’re six months old. However, teething symptoms usually precede the eruption by as much as two to three months.
Signs and Symptoms of Teething
You should suspect the start of teething if you notice these three signs:
Drooling
To prepare for the first tooth, a baby’s body often stimulates drooling. This usually starts between ten weeks and four months of age, continuing as long as the little one’s teeth keep coming.
If your infant’s shirts are constantly wet, fasten on a bib to keep them clean and comfortable. Also, gently wipe their chin throughout the day to prevent chapping.
Biting
As you likely already know, teething can cause much discomfort. Many babies try to relieve the pain by applying counter-pressure through biting.
That being the case, teething babies will gum whatever they can gnaw — rattles, toys, their hands, you name it.
Irritability
Your little one’s mouth will ache and hurt as their tooth presses on the gums and pokes through the surface. Naturally, that’ll make them fussy and irritable.
This upset period, though, can vary in length. Some babies might only be fussy for a few hours, while others can stay that way for days or weeks.
How to Soothe a Teething Baby
To help reduce your baby’s pain, consider these tips:
- Give them something cold to gnaw, as the cool temperature could numb the ache.
- Use your clean finger to massage their gums. (If the teeth aren’t in yet, let your baby gnaw it instead.)
- Offer a hard, unsweetened teething cracker.
It might not be the most fun change in your child’s life, but teething marks a significant step in oral health. Not long after, the little one will have a beaming smile to share with the world!
About the Practice
Castle Rock Smiles is based in Castle Rock, CO. As led by Drs. Benzley and Betty, the practice has served pediatric dental patients for over ten years. Its team offers preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, even including emergency treatments. Dedicated to the safe and compassionate care of young people, they’re a trustworthy provider of your child’s smile needs. For more information or to book an appointment, reach them at their website or by phone at (303)-660-5373.
