As your infant’s primary teeth emerge, they experience teething discomfort. Babies usually begin teething at the age of six months, and for a new tooth to fully emerge it takes anywhere from one to seven days. These signs typically indicate of the start of your child’s teething period:
- Drooling
- Irritability
- Sore gums
- Chewing on objects
Every parent tries to soothe their baby’s irritation to put themselves and their child at ease. Here is a list of regimens and remedies you can provide for relief from the irritated soft tissue.
Massage gums. Using a clean finger, apply pressure to your child’s aching gums. This helps soothe their discomfort.
Provide chilled teething toys. A spoon, washcloth, or an infant teething ring can provide your baby with relief. Parents are cautioned to not put their child’s items in the freezer and use only the refrigerator to create the right temperature for soothing irritation.
Try hard foods. Your baby may find relief in eating harder foods to stimulate their gums. Foods like chilled cucumbers and carrots allow them to bite something edible, while the cold numbs soft tissue. Parents should always be watchful while their child is eating to avoid choking hazards.
Use over-the-counter medication. If your baby is in obvious discomfit and does not benefit from home remedies or teething toys, a dental or medical professional may recommend a pharmaceutical option. Medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or topical agents designed for infants can bring your child relief.
Alternative teething options. Infants like to grab anything within reach and start chewing on it, which is certainly true during the emergence of their first teeth. For mothers of teething children, there is specialized jewelry designed for your baby to grab and bite. This can be a convenient way to handle your child’s teething period; you’ll always have a toy present when your child needs it.
It is important for parents to cleanse the surface of their child’s gums every day, especially when they begin teething. By gently using a washcloth to wipe their gums, you keep bacteria from building up and causing potential dental issues. Though it may not seem important, wiping any drool away from your child’s mouth during teething is necessary as well. When excessive saliva is not cleaned, it can cause skin irritation, making the teething stage even more uncomfortable. Applying water-based cream or lotion will also soothe the area.
For any more information on how to soothe your child’s discomfort during teething, or if you have any questions regarding your oral health for your baby, contact Dr. Bryan at the Tooth Station!