What You Need to Know About Teething

Posted March 2, 2017

Is your generally happy and easygoing baby seeming particularly fussy, lately? If so, it could be due to teething. Babies are born with 20 teeth just below the gumline, which must then come in, or erupt. This can unfortunately be a painful process for your child. Of course, it can also be troubling to parents, seeing their kids suffer from teething troubles. The good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to help your child feel more comfortable during this necessary part of growing up.

Why Is My Baby So Cranky?

Many adults can remember how painful it was when their wisdom teeth erupted. This is similar to what your baby is experiencing during the process. Because of this, your child may seem fussy, irritable, exhibit a loss of appetite, or even drool more than usual during the teething process. Your baby might also have troubles sleeping during this time.

That said, it’s important to keep in mind that rashes, fever and diarrhea are not normal parts of the teething process, so if your child is struggling with any of these, you should speak with his or her pediatrician.

How Can You Help?

If you want to help ease your child’s discomfort, there are a few steps you can try. Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a small and cool spoon, a damp gauze pad, or even a clean finger can sometimes help. Clean teething rings or even pacifiers can also be helpful to some kids.

Many websites and stores offer teething necklaces, as well, that can be worn either by you or your child, to offer ongoing relief. When choosing any product for your baby, it’s of course important to do adequate research. Many pediatricians advise against using homeopathic teething rings and numbing gels, though. So speak with your pediatric dentist before using any product besides the simple ones outlined above.

Your Baby Needs Dental Care, Too

Even babies over the age of one need to see the dentist regularly for cleanings. To schedule a visit for your kids, contact Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda, at 214-321-4880.