Teething
What is Teething?
Teething is a natural process during which a tooth pushes through the gum and appears in the mouth. Babies are born with all 20 primary teeth below their gum line, and they typically begin to emerge between 6 and 12 months of age.
It's rare, but did you know that about 1 in every 2,000 to 3,000 babies flashes a grin with one or more teeth at birth? These early unexpected arrivals, called 'natal teeth,' might wiggle a bit and are often removed to keep nursing and breastfeeding comfortable and safe. Removal is important to prevent the danger of getting aspirated into the lungs and endangering their life..
Understanding the Timeline of Baby Teething: When to Expect That First Tooth
This is one of the most common questions new parents ask the doctors. While the process of teething typically starts around 6 to 8 months of age, it's not unusual for some tiny tots to show their first tooth as early as 3 months or as late as 14 months. The timing of teething can vary widely among toddlers, and in most cases, a later start is no cause for alarm.
Symptoms and Signs of Teething in Babies
Teething symptoms typically manifest before the teeth break through the gums. These symptoms can vary from one baby to another and often include:
- Swollen and painful gums
- General discomfort that can cause increased fussiness and crying
- A slightly elevated body temperature (usually below 101�F)
- A desire to gnaw or chew on hard objects
- Excessive drooling, which can lead to a rash on the baby's face
- Occasional cough
- Rubbing their cheek or pulling their ears
- Frequently putting their hands in their mouths
- Refusal of food due to pain and discomfort
- Disrupted sleep and increased irritability due to discomfort(1✔)
It's important to note that teething can be painful, but it does not make babies sick. Symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, body rashes, high fever, or congestion are NOT typical signs of teething. If you notice bleeding gums or any signs of infection, it's advisable to consult a pediatrician.
Teething Pattern
The order in which teeth appear can vary among babies, often influenced by family history. However, the typical teething pattern involves:
- The lower front two teeth are the first to emerge
- This is followed by the upper front two teeth and the adjacent teeth
- Subsequently, the teeth on either side of the lower front teeth appear, followed by the first molars
- The teeth in front of the first molars come next
- The back molars are the last to emerge.
Usually, all 20 primary teeth are in place by around 3 years of age.
Tips to Ease Teething Discomfort
To alleviate teething discomfort, consider the following tips:
- Wipe your baby's face to remove excess drool and prevent rashes.
- Offer your child something cool to chew on, such as a clean, damp washcloth, a chilled pacifier, a rubber teething ring, or a spoon.
- If your baby is eating solids, provide firm, unsweetened teething crackers or cold, soft foods like yogurt.
- For babies older than 6 to 9 months, offer ice water in a cup from which they can sip.
- Gently massage the baby's gums with a clean finger or let them bite your finger if their teeth haven't yet erupted.
- To prevent the newborns from biting while nursing, dip your fingers in cold water and massage their gums before feeding.
- Avoid putting anything besides water in a bottle, as formula, milk, or juice can lead to tooth decay.
- Teething gels and remedies may provide temporary relief for children 2 years and older. Use them with caution, and do not use them for children under 2 years of age(2✔).
What Factors Can Influence the Start of Teething in an Infant?
Several factors can influence when your baby's first tooth makes its appearance:
Genetics:
If you or your partner were early or late teethers, there's a chance your baby will follow suit.Nutrition:
Adequate nutrition is vital for all aspects of your baby's development, including teething.Health:
Overall health can impact teething timing, with some health conditions possibly delaying tooth eruption (6✔).When to Consult a Pediatric Dentist
If your baby hasn't developed any teeth by the age of 18 months, you should consider consulting a pediatric dentist or Pedodontist. They can assess your baby look for an underlying cause for the delayed teething and provide the necessary guidance or intervention.
Remember, each child is unique and so is their development. Teething is a milestone that may come sooner for some and a bit later for others, and that's perfectly normal. Keep an eye out for signs of teething, such as gum swelling, drooling, gum rubbing, and general discomfort, so you'll be ready to help soothe your baby when the time comes (4✔).
Treatment with Medicines
Consult a pediatrician or even better a pediatric dentist if available for guidance on administering pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen if your baby is clearly in pain. Be cautious with teething gels, as those containing choline salicylate and benzocaine can be harmful to infants. General oral pain management gels should not be used on young children.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Teething
Avoid giving your baby anything to eat or drink that is not recommended as a teething aid by the manufacturer. Stay away from the following items, even if they are marketed as teethers or teething aids:
- Liquid-filled teethers that can break and leak.
- Teethers are made of breakable materials like plastic, which can pose choking hazards and may contain dangerous substances such as lead.
- Avoid putting anything around the child's neck, including teething rings.
- Do not apply anything cold directly to a child's gums.
- Refrain from cutting the gums to promote tooth eruption, as this can increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid using tooth powders.
- Do not clean the baby's gums with alcohol.
- Do not use homeopathic medications that may contain components unsuitable for young children(3✔).
What to Do with a Baby's New Teeth
To care for your baby's teeth, follow these steps:
- Before the teeth start to emerge, clean your baby's gums at least once daily with a wet washcloth or gauze.
- Once your child has teeth, continue cleaning their mouth in the same manner at least twice daily, preferably after feeding.
- Begin using a soft bristled baby toothbrush with water and a small amount of fluoride free toothpaste when your child turns one. Consult a pediatrician for an early dental checkup to assess the need for a dentist visit before the age of one (5✔).
Scheduling your child's first dental appointment around their first birthday is recommended by both the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Regular dental care during childhood is crucial for ensuring a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
References:
- Teeth development in children - (https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/teeth-development-in-children)
- Teething: Tips for soothing sore gums - (https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/teething/art-20046378)
- Teething tips: five things to try - (https://www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/teething/teething-tips-five-things-try)
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