Has your child suddenly started acting fussier than usual? Are they refusing to sleep when they’re supposed to, or seemingly wanting to chew on absolutely everything within reach? There’s a good chance that your little one is teething! Teething is a completely normal part of childhood, but for most children, there are many moments of discomfort. However, knowing what to look for and how to respond can make a big difference in helping them navigate this phase smoothly. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.
When Does Teething Usually Start?
Most babies begin teething somewhere between 4 and 7 months of age, although it’s not unheard of for it to start a little earlier or later. The bottom front teeth typically make their appearance first, followed by the upper front teeth, and then the rest of the teeth gradually come in over the next couple of years.
By the time your child is around 3 years old, they’ll likely have a full set of 20 primary teeth! Every child is different, though, so try not to worry too much if your baby’s timeline doesn’t line up perfectly with this.
Common Signs Your Baby Is Teething
Babies aren’t always the best at communicating what they’re feeling, and sometimes, teething symptoms can be mistaken for something else completely. That said, some of the most common signs parents should look for include:
- Increased drooling or a drool rash around the mouth and chin
- The tendency to chew or gnaw on everything
- Swollen, red, puffy, or tender gums
- General irritability and fussiness
- Disrupted sleep
- Decreased appetite
- The tendency to tug at their ears or cheeks
How Can I Ease My Child’s Teething Discomfort?
Luckily, there are many things you can do to help your little one feel more comfortable while they’re teething, a few of which include:
- Use a clean finger or cloth to apply gentle pressure to their gums; this counter-pressure can be very soothing.
- Try a chilled (not frozen) teething toy, as the cool temperature helps numb sore gums.
- Offer your child cold, soft foods like a chilled piece of fruit or pureed fruit.
- Encourage your child and let them know that it’s only temporary discomfort!
Teething is one of those inevitable rites of passage that can be tough on babies and parents alike, but with a little patience and the right strategies, you can help your little one get through it with ease.
About the Practice
At Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our team is dedicated to helping Fitchburg families navigate every stage of their child’s dental development, including teething! We offer a wide range of pediatric services, including dentistry for infants in a warm, welcoming, kid-friendly environment. If you have questions about your baby’s teething or want to schedule their first dental visit, you can contact us online or give us a call at (978) 424-4255 for more information.