When Do Babies Start Teething and What Are the Symptoms?
As a new parent, many aspects of caring for a baby may come as a surprise, including the teething process. Teeth can begin to emerge in infants as early as three months, and understanding the process and recognizing symptoms can help parents better care for their children.
A Timeline of the Teething Process
Teething is a biological process in which teeth emerge from the gums of the infant. This is a gradual process that occurs over several years and happens in stages. During each teething stage, new teeth emerge and push through the gums. This can cause discomfort and fussiness in babies.
The first stage of teething is the emergence of the lower central incisors, which typically begin to emerge between 4-7 months. Next are the upper central incisors, which generally emerge between 8-12 months. After this, the lateral incisors emerge, which appear on either side of the central incisors. Then come the first molars, followed by the canines. Finally, the second molars emerge, typically occurring between the ages of 2-3 years old.
It is important to keep in mind that each baby is unique and may experience teething differently. However, most babies can display these signs within a few months of each age range.
Common Teething Symptoms
Teething can cause various symptoms as babies begin to cut teeth, even before the tooth has erupted. The most crucial symptoms to look for in a teething baby include:
- Pain and discomfort
- Fussiness and irritability
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Biting and gnawing
- Ear pulling
- Difficulty sleeping
- Slight temperature elevation
While these symptoms are common, it is important to note that not every baby will display all of these during the teething process.
Teething Remedies
While there are no absolute cures for teething pain, there are many ways to help relieve the discomfort of the teething process. Some of the most effective methods include:
- Cooling teethers can help ease pain and swelling in the gums.
- Mild pain relief medication, such as infant acetaminophen, helps relieve pain and crankiness.
- Mildly rubbing your baby’s gums with a clean finger can apply pressure and ease the pain
- Nursing or bottle-feeding to provide comfort
It is crucial to keep your baby comfortable and pain-free, but it is also important to avoid safety hazards related to teething remedies. When using cooling teethers, ensure they are safe and have been sterilized to avoid any bacterial infections. And when administering medication, make sure to consult your pediatrician and follow dosage instructions carefully.
First Toothbrushing
As soon as your baby’s first tooth emerges, it’s time to start cleaning it. Using a soft bristled toothbrush and a small smear of toothpaste, parents can help babies establish good oral health. This not only keeps teeth healthy but also prepares babies for lifelong dental hygiene practices.
It is never too early to focus on oral health, as tooth decay and gum disease can occur even in young children. Selecting a toothbrush that has soft bristles and a small brush head can help prevent damage to the delicate gum tissue, which can be more sensitive during the teething process. The toothpaste should also be fluoride-free until your child is old enough to spit.
Teething Myths Debunked
With the teething process comes many misconceptions and myths, causing undue confusion and anxiety for many parents. Some of these myths include:
- Teething causes a high fever
- Teething leads to diarrhea
- All babies teethe at the same time
These misconceptions are not only untrue but can also be dangerous, leading to misdiagnosis or ignoring other underlying health issues. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice if fever, diarrhea, or other concerning symptoms occur.
Coping with Sleepless Nights
Sleepless nights are a common reality for parents of teething babies. Fussy behaviors and wake-ups can disrupt daily routines and cause stress for caregivers. However, there are ways to cope with these interruptions, including:
- Establishing a routine to help maintain consistency and familiarize your baby with a schedule
- Using a soothing atmosphere with low lights and white noise to encourage rest
- Staying consistent with teething remedies to help reduce symptoms during the night
It is also important to discuss sleeping disruptions with your pediatrician to address any underlying concerns or potential safety risks.
Teething Hazards
While teething is a natural process, it’s important to keep hazards in mind, such as choking hazards that can come from small teething toys or loose pieces that infants can swallow. Additionally, a slight fever related to teething may be normal, but parents should be aware of a high fever and other symptoms that may indicate other health issues.
Prevention is key, and parents should be diligent about monitoring all of their baby’s activities, including teething remedies, and ensuring they are using safe products.
Conclusion
The teething process can be a stressful and challenging time for both infants and parents. However, with patience and care, parents can help alleviate their baby’s discomfort and keep their oral health in optimal condition. With a better understanding of the teething process and its symptoms and remedies, parents can address teething-related issues and take a proactive approach to their baby’s oral health.
